iN PHOTOS: Eat or be eaten is nature’s way in Thompson-Okanagan

In the world of wildlife, survival boils down to ‘eat or be eaten,’ and in recent months Thompson-Okanagan nature lovers captured the moments where the strongest predators succeeded.

Animals eating other animals is necessary to maintain balance in the ecosystem, control population sizes and transfer energy through the food system, and it can look savage at times.

iN PHOTOS: Eat or be eaten is nature's way in Thompson-Okanagan | iNFOnews.ca
A red-tailed hawk eats a snake in Vernon. SUBMITTED/Bernie Arthurs

Outfitted with tools like sharp claws and keen eyesight, predators often target sick, old or injured prey animals, which keeps the ecosystem healthy by removing weak genetics and diseases from prey populations.

Some of the deadly interactions are quick and messy while others are slow and meticulous.

iN PHOTOS: Eat or be eaten is nature's way in Thompson-Okanagan | iNFOnews.ca
A Cooper’s hawk feasts on a squirrel in the North Okanagan. SUBMITTED/Jeremy Thomson

These captures are raw and wild, showcasing the harsh beauty of the region’s wildlife.

If you have a fierce wildlife photo to share, send it to news@infonews.ca

iN PHOTOS: Eat or be eaten is nature's way in Thompson-Okanagan | iNFOnews.ca
A blue heron swallows a fish in Kamloops. SUBMITTED/Mark Coupe Photography
iN PHOTOS: Eat or be eaten is nature's way in Thompson-Okanagan | iNFOnews.ca
A garter snake swallows an invasive goldfish at a pond in Lake Country. SUBMITTED/Jason Radany
iN PHOTOS: Eat or be eaten is nature's way in Thompson-Okanagan | iNFOnews.ca
A great gray owl has its beak full. SUBMITTED/Darren Hebert Photography
iN PHOTOS: Eat or be eaten is nature's way in Thompson-Okanagan | iNFOnews.ca
A hawk snags a marmot in Kamloops. SUBMITTED
iN PHOTOS: Eat or be eaten is nature's way in Thompson-Okanagan | iNFOnews.ca
A Cooper’s hawk feasts on prey in Kamloops. SUBMITTED/Peter Sulzle

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Shannon Ainslie

Shannon Ainslie brings a background of writing and blogging to the team. She is interested in covering human interest stories and engaging with her community of Kamloops.