After 17 minutes of observation, experts realized that the pair of coral snakes had a clear winner and loser, with the winner taking the amphibian prey.
Scientists observed two red-tailed coral snakes (Micrurus mipartitus) fighting over an amphibian in the wild, Phys reported on March 26. This is the first case of kleptoparasitism – stealing food that other creatures have earned – in the wild area first recorded in the Cobra family (Elapidae).
Most species in the Cobra family are venomous, some are among the most dangerous snakes in the world. This family includes about 400 species, including many snake groups such as mambas, cobras, sea snakes, and coral snakes.
Parasitic robbery is a behavior that scientists have carefully studied in many animal species, but is rarely recorded in snakes in natural habitats. The new observation is detailed in a study by two Swedish experts, Henrik Bringsoe and Niels Poul Dreyer, published in the journal Herpetosis. In the video, two red-tailed coral snakes grab a Caecilian – a legless amphibian that looks like a snake.
The battle took place in the dense tropical forest of Valle del Cauca, western Colombia. Surprisingly, during the struggle, a snake even bit the opponent. However, researchers say this is most likely accidental. After 17 minutes of observation, they saw the loser coral snake release its prey. The winner then leaves and the loser doesn’t follow.
New research shows that parasitic predatory behavior may be more common in captivity, but this behavior in the wild has not been recorded much due to the evasive nature of coral snakes and the difficulties encountered. other. “Captive snakes often commit parasitism when only one prey is introduced into a simulated habitat with two or more snakes. But it is quite surprising that this is not seen more often in the wild.” , said author Henrik Bringsoe.
The new research also helps shed light on the interactions between coral snakes and their prey. For example, in the case of Valle del Cauca, Caecilians showed remarkable adaptations such as developing resistance to toxins and increased mucus production.