From shape-shifting birds to snake princes: How ‘Voices in the Wind’ maps Himalaya’s living folk tales
3 min readMay 31, 2026 04:54 PM IST Venomous snakes rank among nature’s most feared predators, but in the wild, even deadly serpents are not always at the top of the food chain. Across forests, grasslands, deserts, and wetlands, several bird species have evolved remarkable hunting skills that allow them to attack and consume highly venomous snakes. Using sharp talons, powerful beaks, lightning-fast reflexes, and aerial precision, these birds play a crucial role in maintaining ecological balance by controlling snake populations.Here are some of the most fascinating birds known for hunting deadly snakes. Secretary Bird Native to the savannas of sub-Saharan Africa, the secretary bird is perhaps the world’s most famous snake hunter. Unlike most birds of prey, it hunts mainly on foot, using its long legs to stomp snakes with immense force. The bird is known to attack dangerous species such as cobras and puff adders with astonishing speed and precision. Crested Serpent Eagle Found across India and Southeast Asia, the crested serpent eagle specialises in hunting reptiles, particularly snakes. With keen eyesight and powerful talons, it swoops down from tree perches to capture prey. It is often spotted carrying snakes back to its nest. An adult brown snake eagle (Photo: Wikipedia)Snake Eagle Several species of snake eagles, especially the short-toed snake eagle, are renowned reptile hunters. Found in parts of Europe, Africa, and Asia, these raptors hover high above open terrain before diving onto snakes. Thick scales on their legs help protect them from bites. Roadrunner Popularly known through cartoons, roadrunners are surprisingly fierce predators in real life. Found in the deserts of the United States and Mexico, they hunt small snakes, lizards, and scorpions. They use rapid strikes and repeated blows against rocks to subdue prey.Story continues below this ad Laughing falcon (Photo: Wikipedia)Laughing Falcon Nicknamed the “snake hawk,” the laughing falcon is a specialised snake hunter found in Central and South America. It feeds heavily on venomous snakes, including coral snakes and pit vipers. Its strong hooked beak helps sever the snake’s spine before consumption. Great Horned Owl One of North America’s most powerful nocturnal predators, the great horned owl occasionally hunts snakes, including venomous rattlesnakes. Silent flight and powerful talons make it an effective ambush predator after dark. White-Bellied Sea Eagle This large raptor, commonly seen near coastlines and wetlands across Asia and Australia, feeds on fish, reptiles, and water snakes. It often snatches snakes directly from the water using its powerful claws.