That's a Wrap

📽 by Yona Strijbis

Snakes, both constricting and non-constricting species, wrap up their food for a couple of reasons:

1. To subdue the prey: When a snake catches its prey, the prey may still be alive and struggling. Wrapping around the prey helps the snake to hold on to it and prevent it from escaping. Additionally, wrapping around the prey can help to subdue it by squeezing it, making it difficult for the prey to breathe and leading to eventual suffocation.

2. To aid in digestion: Once the prey has been subdued, the snake will swallow it whole. The act of wrapping around the prey helps to position it in a way that makes it easier for the snake to swallow. Additionally, the constriction can help to break down the prey's bones and other tough tissue, making it easier to digest.

Overall, the behaviour of wrapping up their food helps snakes to effectively catch and eat their prey.

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