Snake dies tragically after trying to swallow a whole porcupine

YnetNews recently reported that the encounter between the black whip snake and the porcupine took place in the town of Shoham, central Israel in August.

A passerby found the snake lying motionless on the grass while walking his dog, with a porcupine in its mouth. Aviad Bar, an ecologist with the Israel Nature and Parks Authority (INPA), who specializes in reptiles, was then called to the scene.

Mr. Bar identified it as a black whip snake. “It seems that the snake tried to eat the porcupine. It realized it had made a serious mistake and decided to give up the meal. However, the porcupine’s sharp quills prevented the snake from releasing its prey, leading to a tragic end for both parties,” Mr. Bar said.

Snake dies after trying to swallow porcupine whole. Photo: Israel Nature and Parks Authority (INPA)

There are three species of hedgehogs found throughout the country in Israel. Their varied diet includes insects, small invertebrates, birds, and even snakes.

According to INPA, black whip snakes are not venomous. They have a voracious appetite and help control various pests, including venomous snakes, in their range. Like other snakes, they are protected in Israel.

Statistics show that there are a total of 41 species of snakes in Israel, most of which are harmless to humans. INPA emphasizes that only 9 species of snakes in the country are venomous.

Snakes use venom to hunt prey or defend themselves against predators. Snakes play an important role in maintaining the ecological balance in their habitats, and contribute significantly to controlling populations of pests and other harmful organisms, as well as proving important in maintaining a healthy ecosystem.

Pham Nghia

Source: https://nld.com.vn/thoi-su-quoc-te/ran-chet-tham-vi-co-nuot-nguyen-con-nhim-20231005225638926.htm