Georgia Wildlife Technician Discovers Cannibal Indigo Snake That Regurgitated Three Other Snakes

In a surprising incident reported by the Georgia Department of Natural Resources (DNR) Wildlife Resources Division, a wildlife technician made an unexpected discovery during a survey in southeast Georgia. The technician, who was initially searching for eastern indigo snakes, stumbled upon a four-foot-long specimen that had regurgitated not just one, but three other snakes, including a live rattlesnake.

Cannibal snake found in Georgia 

Last November, the technician encountered a southeast Georgia snake that had consumed and regurgitated three other snakes, one of which was still alive. The DNR described the indigo snake's meal as consisting of a second, smaller indigo snake, a young rat snake, and a juvenile eastern diamond-backed rattlesnake. The live rattlesnake sparked intrigue among DNR officials, who noted its unexpected resilience after being expelled.

Impressive Hunting Abilities

Indigo snakes are known for their predatory behavior, particularly their propensity to hunt other snakes. The DNR highlighted the indigo snake's hunting prowess, as it had clearly consumed and then expelled its meal, resulting in a weight loss of approximately half a pound. This event underscored the indigo snake's reputation as a skilled hunter.

While the rat snake did not survive, the juvenile rattlesnake displayed surprising signs of life an hour after its expulsion. DNR officials noted that the snake was basking in the sun rather than seeking refuge in a burrow, demonstrating its resilience and ability to recover from the distressing encounter. Additionally, it was found to have recently consumed a large mouse, further attesting to its vitality.

Repercussions on the Wildlife Ecosystem

This unexpected encounter sheds light on the complex interactions within the southeast Georgia wildlife ecosystem. The presence of predatory indigo snakes, capable of consuming various prey, highlights the intricate dynamics among different snake species in the region. The resilience displayed by the juvenile rattlesnake also raises questions about the survival strategies employed by different snake species in the face of predation.