The incident was captured by an amateur wildlife photographer named Sam Davis from Maryland, showcasing the eel bursting out from the heron’s stomach.
The snake eel, known for its hard tip used for digging in the soft sand on the ocean floor, displayed an unusual attempt to free itself from the bird’s digestive system by trying to break through. Unfortunately, it seems that the snake eel did not survive the escape attempt, as indicated by the photographs.
Mr Davis said eagles were following the heron through the air
The photographer had initially thought the heron had been injured by a snake or eel until reviewing the images and realizing the true events that transpired. Despite the heron’s surprising ability to continue flying even with the evident injuries, experts believe that such a severe injury may not be survivable for the bird.
A fox chased from the ground
Martin Fowlie, an RSPB expert, mentioned that while snake eels have been observed trying to burrow out of fish in the past to avoid being eaten, this particular incident involving a bird is unprecedented. The unique photos captured by Sam Davis have astounded wildlife experts and viewers, highlighting a rare and morbid yet fascinating moment in nature.
Wildlife staff said they’d never seen anything like it
The eel burst out of the heron using its hard tip
The snake eel did not survive its daring escape
The fox knew it was worth hanging around
