Incredible footage was captured of a king snake encountering a rattlesnake in Georgia, USA. Here we dive into the gripping world of snake-on-snake combat and compare these two predators.
Read to the end to watch the video!
Introduction to King snakes and Rattlesnakes
Aspect
King snake
Rattlesnake
Size
Typically 3–4 ft long
Varies greatly, some over 6 ft long
Origin
North and Central America
Throughout the Americas
Background Info
Immune to snake venom
Have rattling tails
Physical Characteristics
Chain-link fence-like pattern on the back
Triangular-shaped head, segmented rattles on the tail
Behavior
Constrictor
Venomous
Diet
Rodents, birds, and other snakes
Small mammals and birds
Lifespan
Up to 20 years in captivity
Typically 10–25 years
Kingsnake: The Mighty Constrictor
Scarlet King Snake. image via Peter Paplanus from St. Louis, Missouri, CC BY 2.0 https://creativecom mons.org/licenses/by/2.0, via Wikimedia Commons
The king snake can infamously overpower and consume venomous snakes, including rattlesnakes. King snakes use their speed and strength to seize their prey and tightly constrict the the creature for its next meal.
Incredibly, king snakes can devour snakes even longer than themselves once they’ve been squeezed to death.
Rattlesnake
Mojave rattlesnake. Image by Pixabay via Pexels
Contrary to popular belief, rattlesnakes are not indiscriminate killers; instead, they play a crucial role in maintaining ecological balance in their habitats by controlling populations of rodents, which can easily become pests that harbor diseases.
However, when a rattlesnake is confronted by a king snake, even they stand little chance of survival.
Nature’s Intricate Web
Mexican king snake. Image Via Chmee2, CC BY-SA 3.0 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/3.0, via Wikimedia Commons
This spectacle of snake-on-snake combat is a fantastic example of the struggle for survival in the animal kingdom. All animals should be able to adapt – eat or get eaten.
Author at Animals Around The Globe. BSc Computer Science and Oceanography
I am passionate about all animals and wildlife, especially their conservation and preservation. I grew up fascinated by the natural environment and feel most at peace surrounded by untouched nature. I live by sharing this passion with others through diving, as I am also a freediving guide - stepping into another realm, sharing the ocean with all of the intriguing marine life.
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