How do Western Rat Snakes subdue warm-blooded prey through constriction?
Answer
Tightening the grip with each exhalation of the prey
The Western Rat Snake utilizes its powerful, muscular body to subdue its prey through constriction, a method effective against struggling warm-blooded animals like birds and rodents. Once coiled around the victim, the snake applies significant pressure. This constriction is systematically increased during the prey's attempt to exhale. With each outgoing breath the victim takes, the snake tightens its coils further. This process effectively restricts air intake, leading to asphyxiation or potentially causing cardiac arrest, thereby safely neutralizing a meal that might otherwise fight back.
Related Questions
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