By News18,Satyaki Baidya

Copyright news18

The enmity between snakes and mongooses has been depicted in numerous folktales and stories. This conflict is so renowned that people often watch intently whenever a mongoose confronts a snake. But have you ever wondered why such a deep-seated enmity exists between these creatures and who typically has the upper hand in these encounters?
The rivalry between snakes and mongooses is ancient, stretching back millions of years. Zoologists explain that the core reason for this enmity is their inherent nature and competition within their food chain. The mongoose is a small but highly agile and alert hunter, with a particular penchant for consuming snakes, especially venomous ones.
Conversely, the snake is a top predator in the forest, sustaining itself by hunting rats, frogs, lizards, and other small creatures. Therefore, when a mongoose attacks a snake, a fierce clash is inevitable.
It might surprise some to learn that the mongoose possesses a unique immunity that protects it from snake venom. Scientific studies reveal that the mongoose’s body contains acetylcholine receptors, which effectively neutralise snake venom. Consequently, the mongoose often survives encounters with venomous snakes such as cobras, allowing it to attack without fear.
Despite the snake’s venomous and powerful nature, the mongoose is renowned for its agility and cleverness. The mongoose adeptly evades the snake’s attacks at high speed and counterattacks. Typically, a mongoose targets the snake’s head to swiftly kill it. However, not all snakes are defeated easily; large snakes like pythons can overpower a mongoose by constricting it. Yet, the mongoose generally remains superior when facing venomous snakes.
In the battle between snakes and mongooses, both creatures present significant challenges to each other. The snake aims to kill with its venom, while the mongoose seeks to overpower the snake with its sharp teeth. This confrontation is thrilling to witness, as the snake moves with a calm gait, while the mongoose strikes with lightning speed. This dynamic struggle is considered a remarkable display of nature’s balance.
In most encounters, the mongoose emerges victorious over the snake. This outcome is primarily due to the mongoose’s agility, cleverness, and immunity to venom. However, this does not guarantee the snake’s defeat every time. If the snake is larger or the mongoose misses an opportunity, the outcome can change.
Ultimately, the enmity between snakes and mongooses is a natural cycle where both creatures fight for survival. Both are distinguished by their unique traits, but the mongoose’s ability to combat venom has given it an edge over the snake.