Constriction

From Free net encyclopedia

Constriction is a method used by various snake species to kill their prey. The snake initially bites its prey and holds on, pulling the prey into its coils or, in the case of very large prey, pulling itself onto the prey. The snake will then wrap one or two coils around the prey, typically the prey's chest. Contrary to myth, the snake does not crush the prey, or even break its bones, but instead squeezes, tightening its grip every time the prey exhales and holding firm, until the prey can no longer draw in air. Another common misconception is that the snake asphyxiates its prey when, in fact, the pressure applied to the prey is so great that it causes the heart to stop beating. The snake will then begin to feed. The entire process is surprisingly rapid, with prey often succumbing as quickly as a minute after being struck.

Certain groups of snakes have characteristic patterns of constriction, including the number of coils they use and the orientation of the coils. Also, there is controversy about how much role restriction of circulation plays in subduing prey.

Constriction, the opposite of dilation or dilatation, also refers to vasoconstriction, the narrowing of blood vessels caused by vascular smooth muscle contractions.

Constriction can also refer to the act of binding a victim with rope, either as a method of torture or sexual bondage.