An unusual observation has surprised snake conservationists after a Mumbai-based wildlife enthusiast documented a rare case of cannibalism in the Indian rat snake (Ptyas mucosa). In the Ghodbunder area of Thane, an adult rat snake was spotted consuming a smaller one of its own species. On September 13, Shivam Dubey from NGO WWA captured the incident, describing it as a significant addition to the natural history of the species.
“Cannibalism refers to consuming individuals of the same species. While not commonly reported in Ptyas mucosa, such behaviour occasionally occurs due to their opportunistic feeding habits. Indian rat snakes are known for ophiophagy (feeding on other snakes), and in rare cases, this extends to their own kind. This sighting highlights their ecological adaptability and expands our understanding of their natural history,” Dubey told mid-day.
This is not the first such case documented in Mumbai. In January 2025, naturalists recorded another striking example of ophiophagy at Maharashtra Nature Park, where a rat snake devoured a live juvenile Indian Rock Python. The oriental rat snake (Ptyas mucosa), a diurnal species found across Iran, the Indian subcontinent, and parts of Southeast Asia, is a generalist predator. Its diet includes frogs, rodents, birds, and other snakes such as the Ornate Flying Snake (Chrysopelea ornata), Checkered Keelback (Fowlea piscator), Spectacled Cobra (Naja naja), Russell`s Kukri (Oligodon taeniolatus), and Indian Sand Snake (Psammophis condanarus).
Varad Giri, head scientist at Reliance Foundation, said, “It is widely believed that the rat snake feeds only on rats, but this is a misconception. They have diverse dietary preferences, from frogs and lizards to birds, snakes, and their eggs. Cannibalism is rarely reported in this species, which makes this sighting particularly important.” Herpetologist Kedar Bhide added, “Rat snakes are opportunistic feeders. Occasionally, when food is scarce or in captivity, they may prey on smaller snakes of their own kind. It’s unusual, but not impossible.”
