What underlies the primary deterrent effect a large python has on brown snakes nearby?
Answer
Resource competition combined with predation risk
The theory suggesting a large python keeps brown snakes away centers less on active defense, which is more typical of mammalian behavior, and more on ecological pressure. The primary mechanisms are twofold: resource competition, as both snakes vie for similar prey bases (like rodents), and the inherent predation risk. If a brown snake perceives a high likelihood of becoming prey itself—especially if it is smaller or juvenile—it is highly motivated by self-preservation to relocate to an area offering a safer risk-reward ratio for hunting.
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