8 Animals That Hunt and Eat Snakes

Mongoose

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These small mammals are famous for their agility and ferocity when taking on snakes, including venomous ones. Mongooses have a lightning-fast reflex system and a flexible spine that allows them to dodge snake strikes. Their thick fur also offers some protection from bites.

Honey Badger

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Honey badgers are known for their fearless nature and they will take on prey much larger than themselves, including snakes. They have a thick hide that is resistant to snake bites and their powerful jaws can crush through bone.

King Cobra

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This venomous snake is actually an ophiophage, meaning it eats other snakes. King cobras are immune to the venom of most other snakes in their range and they will readily consume other cobras, including young of their own species.

Secretary bird

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These long-legged birds of prey are found in Africa and they are known for their hunting prowess. Secretarybirds have powerful legs that they use to stomp on snakes, killing them before swallowing them whole.

Hedgehog

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These spiny mammals are surprisingly good at hunting snakes. Their spiky coat protects them from snake bites and they use their sharp teeth to kill and eat snakes.

Kingsnake

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These non-venomous snakes are immune to the venom of many other rattlesnakes and they are a natural predator of rattlesnakes. Kingsnakes will constrict and kill rattlesnakes, then eat them whole.

Snake Eagle

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As the name suggests, these birds of prey specialize in hunting snakes. Snake eagles have sharp talons and beaks that they use to kill and eat snakes. They are found in many parts of the world, including Europe, Asia, Africa, and Australia.

Wild Boar

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These large, omnivorous mammals will sometimes eat snakes that they encounter while foraging for food. Wild boars have tough hides that can protect them from snake bites and their powerful snouts can root out snakes hiding in the ground.