Water Snake Caught Swallowing Live Fish in Tel Aviv's Park Hayarkon Nature Reserve

A striking encounter was captured in Tel Aviv's Park Hayarkon Nature Reserve, where a banded water snake was filmed catching and swallowing a live large fish known as Amnon. The footage, taken by photographer Eldad Cohen Tzedek, shows the snake swiftly grabbing the fish and consuming it alive.

Liran Kaniel, manager of the "Rosh Tzipor" bird park within the reserve, explained that this snake species inhabits wet environments such as streams, swamps, and winter ponds. It primarily feeds on aquatic animals like frogs, toads, and fish, as seen in the video. Kaniel noted the snake's relatively large eyes indicate it is active during the day and has better vision than nocturnal snakes.

Unlike many snakes that constrict or wait for prey to die, the banded water snake swallows its catch immediately while still alive. Kaniel described how the snake’s hunting method is direct and fast, contrasting with terrestrial snakes that rely on constriction. The snake was observed moving quickly from a tree trunk to the water to catch the fish.

Kaniel also highlighted the snake’s vulnerability while eating, as it cannot defend itself or sense predators effectively with its mouth occupied. This explains why it retreats to hidden spots to consume its prey safely. The snake is non-venomous, common in the Yarkon River and similar habitats, but rarely seen by the public. Kaniel praised the bird park as an accessible location to observe such elusive wildlife, especially during the warm season when the snakes are frequently visible.

The footage and expert insights provide a rare glimpse into the natural behavior of the banded water snake in an urban Israeli nature reserve.