Even Snakes Are Developing Respect for Rodents

At the Tokyo zoo they are the true odd couple. A rat snake and a hamster are currently coexisting peacefully in a cage together. ( http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/10903211/ ) Originally intended as a meal for the snake, the hamster has not only managed to survive, but looks to have bonded with its slitherly room mate. The snake has apparently switched to a diet of frozen rat-sicles and prefers snuggling up with its new furry friend. For those of you who just think this is so cute (and I am among you, so don’t write me e-mails) I do have this warning… We already know that rodents are becoming bigger, smarter and healthier. They are outsmarting humans at every turn. This may just be a odd occurrence in Tokyo, or it may be the sign of an inter-species alliance. And, I don’t know about you, but if snakes and rodents start teaming up against us, those Rutgers scientists will have a new level of fear to investigate!