Encounter the Clever Galapagos Racer Snakes

The Fascinating Galapagos Racer Snakes

Numerous snake species can be found on the islands, including the Galapagos Racer Snakes, some of which resemble Galapagos racers because they are mildly toxic constrictors. They typically eat lava lizards, insects, rodents, mice, and juvenile birds. Visitors will find it interesting to learn that this snake is not aggressive toward humans and would not cause much harm, even in the unlikely event of a threat. One of this snake’s most peculiar characteristics is that, in contrast to other members of its species, it has evolved to hunt and eat fish.

5th January 2017

Galapagos racer snakes—which starred David Attenborough—have taken center stage. The BBC revealed last month that work is underway on Planet Earth’s much-awaited second season. The news of this wildlife and environment program’s return is thrilling for its many fans. Season 1 was terrific due to the places the show visited and the unique animal pictures they took. The amount of preparation and tenacity that the camera operators, crew, and production team must possess to execute a show as complex, expensive, and artistic as this one is beyond my comprehension as a photographer.

A Tight Escape

This fantastic presentation transports viewers to Fernandina, the newest island in the archipelago. It also transports us to the center of the Earth, the Galapagos Islands (you might see this Western island on one of these Galapagos maps!). The episode features a baby iguana running down a rough beach until suddenly racer snakes appear, trying to snag it from behind each rock. The baby iguana eventually leaves a snake-infested beach, but not before it almost gets caught and seems hopeless.

The Various Astonishments of Fernandina

On our second day of journey through the Western Islands, many people make special plans to visit Fernandina Island before we depart. Every square inch of Fernandina is brimming with surprises, from the island’s singular Galapagos species and plants to its breath-taking beauty. In actuality, snakes are rare in the Galapagos Islands, and when they are, they are unseen due to their incredible camouflage. Because of its distinctiveness, walking around Fernandina can be quite exciting because you’re constantly alert for what could be around the corner. Is there anyone who doesn’t like a little tension?

Everything stayed the same on Thursday when we went for our scheduled walk. As soon as we embarked on our journey, a medium-sized Galapagos racer snake appeared out of nowhere and slithered between our feet. The Galapagos racer ultimately left us with nothing more than a treasured memory despite the tension that was palpable in the air.

The Galapagos fauna is particularly remarkable because it inhabits the islands as if they are its own, meaning that human presence has no effect whatsoever on it. Having been lucky enough to witness this, humans try to leave their region largely unchanged.