Deadly snakes’ fight for ‘dinner’

Two snakes have been snapped tussling over a catfish with the pair chomping down and refusing to let go of their prey.

The two snakes keep their eye on the prize (Picture: Steve Creek/Solent News)  As one snake gets to grips with a lunchtime meal, a hungry rival attempts to grab a piece of the tasty treat for itself.

Despite the fact one has swallowed over half of its impressive catch; it doesn't put off the cheeky smaller snake who is determined to grab its share. It's not exactly Lady and the Tramp as both water snakes clamp down on their poor victim, refusing to let go.

The pair can be seen biting down on either side of the ray-finned fish, holding onto their catch of the day with their sharp, piercing teeth.

The larger of the two reptiles eventually wins the duel and slithers away with a belly full of food.  Snakes are able to snack on super-sized meals because of their extremely flexible jaw and must also eat their prey whole due to an inability to chew.

The impressive snap was taken by a wildlife photographer along the banks of the Arkansas River in America.  It is a popular destination for anglers however it appears they might have some unexpected big catch competition.


/metro.co.uk/