The short-toed snake eagle’s diet is comprised of reptiles, and especially snakes. To find them, this bird glides slowly overhead, before swooping in on its prey. It is not immune to the venom, but its quick attack generally prevents it from being bitten. Should all else fail, the short-toed snake eagle is well-protected by thick scales that cover its legs and by a dense layer of feathers over its thighs and belly.