Water Snake Captured Hunting Live Fish in Tel Aviv's Park Hayarkon Nature Reserve

A striking video from the "Rosh Tzipor" bird park in Tel Aviv's Park Hayarkon shows a banded water snake catching and swallowing a live fish. The footage, taken on August 3, 2026, captures the snake seizing a large Amnon fish and swallowing it immediately while still alive. Liran Kaniel, manager of the bird park, explained that this snake species typically inhabits wet environments such as streams, swamps, and winter ponds, feeding on amphibians and fish.

Kaniel noted the snake's relatively large eyes indicate it is diurnal, unlike nocturnal snakes with slit-like pupils. Unlike terrestrial snakes that constrict or wait for prey to die, the banded water snake swallows its catch alive and quickly. Kaniel described how the snake likely sensed fish activity stirred by human movement nearby and seized the opportunity to hunt.

Photographer Eldad Cohen Tzedek witnessed the snake swiftly moving from a tree trunk to the water to catch the fish, then retreating to hide while eating. Kaniel explained the snake hides during feeding because it is vulnerable to predators like jackals, cats, or birds while its mouth is occupied. The banded water snake is non-venomous, common in the Yarkon River and wet habitats, but rarely seen by the public. Kaniel emphasized that the bird park offers a unique chance to observe such hidden wildlife, especially during the warm season when the snakes are more active.

This rare documentation highlights the rich biodiversity in urban natural reserves and the importance of accessible wildlife observation sites.