TRIAL OF STRENGTH: Two rat snakes wrestle in a display of what experts say is a fight for territorial dominance. This sequence of pictures was taken in Adhanur, near Vandalur, about 25 km from Chennai. Photo: A. Muralitharan
NO GIVING UP: Both snakes are male, and their fight for dominance will determine who will win. The victor will control the area - and have the opportunity to pass on genes to the female snakes in this turf. Photo: A. Muralitharan
COILED UP IN COMBAT: The snakes engage in a tough fight. Photo: A. Muralitharan
A LOT OF FIGHT LEFT: After a lot of time spent trying to overpower each other, the snakes still have tremendous energy remaining. Photo: A. Muralitharan
WHO IS THE WINNER? One of the two must now slink away, conceding defeat. Wildlife film-maker Shekar Dattatri points out that similar behaviour is displayed by king cobras, kraits and rattle snakes. Photo: A. Muralitharan
UNDECIDED YET? The combat seems to prolong, as the snakes still engage in the powerful coiling display. Neither will, however, suffer injury at the end of the test. Photo: A. Muralitharan