An epic skirmish between an eagle and a rat snake was caught on video in southern India's Tamil Nadu state.

The incident took place in the grasslands on the outskirts of Chennai on May 12.

On the outskirts of Chennai, a short-toed Snake Eagle soared along the lake, in search of prey.

March to May is the eagle's nesting season and during this time, they frequently hunt the snakes to feed them to their chicks.

Footage shows after a prolonged search, the eagle and the snake engaged in combat while neither is having any luck.

The eagle tried to peck at the snake's head, however, the rat snake escaped its claws and beak every time.

The close combat continued for about 20 minutes.

They continued to stare each other out before the eagle eventually admitted defeat and flew off.

An epic skirmish between an eagle and a rat snake was caught on video in southern India's Tamil Nadu.

The incident took place in the grasslands of Chennai outskirts on May 12.

On the outskirts of Chennai, a short-toed Snake Eagle soared along the lake, in search of prey.

According to reports, March to May is the eagle's nesting time.

During this time, they frequently hunt the snakes to feed them to their chicks.

After a prolonged search, the eagle started hovering above for a few seconds before locking-on to the prey.

Its prey was a rat snake, slithering away in the cover of the grassland.

The bird made a big dive from the sky and within a second both engaged in combat.

The eagle tried to cleave into the snake's head, however, the rat snake escaped its claws and beak every time.

As the eagle and snake surreptitiously circled each other, the mighty bird tried to make a move on the snake.

The close combat continued for about 20 minutes.

They continue to stare each other out—before the eagle eventually admits defeat and flies off.

Battles between the eagle and snake species are likely relatively common, although they are rarely witnessed by people.