When escape fails, what is the primary physical method the Western Rat Snake uses to subdue a threat or capture prey?
Answer
Coiling tightly and squeezing using constriction
The tiered defense strategy employed by the Western Rat Snake culminates in a direct physical confrontation if evasion tactics are unsuccessful. After attempting vocalization or tail vibration, if physical contact is initiated by a predator or perceived threat, the snake resorts to its primary method for subduing resistance: constriction. This involves coiling tightly around the target and applying pressure through muscular contraction. This forceful squeezing action is the established mechanism used to immobilize prey items or neutralize threats once the initial deterrence phases have failed.
Related Questions
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