What Eats Snakes? Animals That Hunt, Kill, and Eat Snakes

Snakes are strong predators, but many animals can hunt and eat them. Birds, mammals, reptiles, and even other snakes target them as prey. Some animals eat snakes for food. Others kill them for defense.

This guide lists animals that eat snakes in the wild. If you’re asking what eats snakes, you’ll find clear answers here.

Birds That Eat Snakes

1. Red-Tailed Hawk

Red-tailed hawks are skilled hunters that use sharp vision to find snakes from high above. They glide silently before diving straight at the target. With strong claws, they grab the snake and crush it instantly. These hawks often eat small- to medium-sized snakes and may even return to the same hunting ground daily. They tear the snake apart before swallowing the pieces.

2. Secretary Bird

Secretary birds live in sub-Saharan Africa. They are large ground-hunting birds known for their snake-killing power. They use long legs to deliver precise kicks that break a snake’s spine. Each strike lands in just milliseconds, making escape nearly impossible. They are not only fast but also immune to some snake venom. Secretary birds mainly eat cobras, vipers, and other venomous species.

3. Owls

Many owl species hunt snakes at night. Great horned owls, barred owls, and eastern screech owls are the most common snake eaters. They fly without making a sound. Their powerful talons pierce the snake’s body in seconds. Most owls eat small snakes whole, but larger ones tear them into smaller parts. Snakes are not their main food, but owls never ignore an easy snake meal.

Mammals That Eat Snakes

4. Mongoose

Mongooses are small but fast predators. They are well-known for fighting and killing venomous snakes. They move quickly to avoid bites and often bite the snake’s head first. Some species are resistant to snake venom due to special proteins in their blood. Mongooses prefer to eat snakes, but they also eat insects, eggs, and rodents.

5. Wolverine

Wolverines have strong jaws and thick fur. They eat snakes, birds, mice, and even frozen meat they find in the wild. Wolverines climb trees and swim to chase prey. They often steal food from other animals. When hunting snakes, they pin them down with strong paws and bite through the spine.

6. American Badger

American badgers live in open fields and dig fast with strong claws. They pull snakes out of holes and attack quickly. Badgers are not afraid of venomous snakes and often hunt rattlesnakes. Their thick skin helps protect them during fights. They eat snakes whole or in large chunks after crushing them.

7. Bobcat

Bobcats are silent stalkers. They hide in brush or grass and wait for snakes to come close. With a quick pounce, they pin the snake and bite behind the head. Bobcats eat snakes, birds, rodents, and rabbits. They adjust their hunting style based on the prey’s size. When hunting large snakes, bobcats stay behind cover and strike when the time is right.

8. Hedgehog

Hedgehogs may look harmless, but they are fierce snake predators. They are immune to many poisons and can eat venomous snakes without harm. Hedgehogs also eat frogs, beetles, spiders, and bees. They search for food at night using a strong sense of smell. Hedgehogs roll into a ball to defend themselves if the snake strikes first.

Reptiles That Eat Snakes

9. Kingsnake

Kingsnakes are famous for killing and eating other snakes. They use powerful muscles to wrap around the snake and squeeze until it suffocates. Kingsnakes can survive venom from rattlesnakes, cottonmouths, and coral snakes. After killing, they swallow the prey headfirst. Kingsnakes often hunt in forests, deserts, and even near human homes.

10. Crocodile

Crocodiles are deadly ambush hunters. They wait quietly in the water and attack when the snake comes close. With strong jaws, they crush the snake instantly. Crocodile skin is thick and hard for fangs to pierce. After the bite, they swallow the snake whole or tear it into pieces. Crocodiles eat both land and water snakes.

What Eats Snakes in the Wild?

In Deserts

• Hawks, badgers, and roadrunners eat snakes.
• Some snakes eat other snakes.

In Forests

• Owls, bobcats, and wolverines hunt snakes.
• Snakes hide under leaves, but predators still find them.

In Water

• Crocodiles and herons eat water snakes.
• Some large fish also swallow snakes.

Do Humans Eat Snakes?

Yes, in some cultures, people cook and eat snakes. Snake meat is common in parts of Asia and the southern U.S. It is grilled, fried, or made into soup.

FAQs About Snake Predators

What birds eat snakes?

Red-tailed hawks, owls, and secretary birds eat snakes in the wild.

Do mongooses eat snakes?

Yes. Mongooses are quick and often immune to venom. They kill snakes easily.

Can a deer eat a snake?

Rarely. Some deer have been seen eating snakes, likely for minerals or protein.

Are snakes afraid of other snakes?

Yes. Some snakes avoid areas with bigger or venomous snakes.

Do crocodiles eat venomous snakes?

Yes. Crocodiles bite fast and are not affected by most snake bites.

Final Thoughts

Snakes are tough animals, but they have many predators. Birds, mammals, reptiles, and even other snakes eat them. Some do it for food. Others attack snakes for safety.

If you’ve ever wondered what eats snakes, the answer is more animals than you think.