Mongooses (mongeese?) aren't the only animals that kill snakes. I've seen monkeys kill cobras, and we used to have a cat that would kill any snake she could find. Same technique - dangle a paw out front to draw a strike, then retract paw, pounce, and deliver one good bite to back of snake's head. Sit and lick paws while watching snake expire.
Lived once in a compound with numerous cats. There was one huge and elegant Tom, and another much older one that looked like he'd been through the wringer, scarred, ears cut up, the works. The big one was completely terrified of this scroungy old beast, and I finally figured out why: the old thing would walk up to his potential rival while the young fellow was fast asleep, basking in the sun, and jump him, biting, scratching, the works. None of the usual posturing and yowling. The younger cat was completely baffled by this breach of protocol, and never stood up for his rights. Which I'm sure disappointed the females greatly.
I've never had a cat of discernable breed, usually just pick up discarded kittens wherever I find them. Works out pretty well.
Steve |
