While South Africa may be famous for animals such as leopards and cape buffalo, the country is also home to a wide variety of snakes, well known amongst herpetologists (or those studying amphibians and reptiles) and there is much of interest to learn for those who study these fascinating creatures. For example, did you know snakes usually only have one lung, stretched to about a third of their body length?

Whether you’re going on a walking tour of the countryside, or simply curious about the recurring theme in South African art, knowing a little about the species of snakes can go a long way towards immersing yourself in the geographical and cultural environment of the country. About a third of snake species in South Africa aren’t found anywhere else in the world. Below are just a few examples of Africa’s unique snakes.

Black Mamba

One of Africa’s most iconic and dangerous snakes, the Black Mamba can reach speeds of up to 12mph – quite impressive when you consider most humans walk at around 2-3 mph. This may partly be attributed to the snake’s size, as adults reach an average of 8 feet (or 2 and a half metres) in length. Black Mambas usually possess brown or olive scales and their mouths are black in colour, from which their distinctive name originates. When a Black Mamba encounters prey, it strikes with a venomous bite, containing enough neuro and cardio-toxic venom to kill 12 men within an hour.

Egyptian Cobra

Another snake that’s deadly due to its venom, the Egyptian Cobra is commonly found in Egypt but also in several parts of North Africa as well. Though it’s only rarely spotted in South Africa, it’s worth watching out for – its venom is so deadly, it has been known to kill an Indian elephant in under 3 hours. The Egyptian cobra’s venom glands are located behind the snake’s eyes, although it is released from behind the fangs. It also has a link to history, as it’s believed that Cleopatra famously used an Egyptian cobra to commit suicide.

Boomslang

Meaning ‘Tree Snake’ in Afrikaans, the Boomslang dwells in trees, though you’d be lucky to spot one in South Africa. Even though they can be found throughout sub-Saharan Africa, the Boomslang possesses a timid temperament at odds with the bright green colouring of the males. The females have brown scales instead, but are equally deadly, both featuring haemotoxic venom. This affects the body’s natural blood clotting after a bite, resulting in bleeding of the internal organs. Sometimes it can take as long as 24 hours before the effects of the venom are felt. Luckily, because of the shy snake’s nature, fatalities from its bite are rare.

Cape Cobra

One of the deadliest snakes in South Africa on account of its aggressive disposition, the Cape Cobra has an extremely powerful venom and can grow up to 4 feet in length. Though it’s not as large as some of the other African snakes, it is one of the most beautiful, and is found in a range of different colours from yellow, to copper, to an unusual purplish black. The Cape Cobra might also be considered an adventurous snake – it loves hunting for rodents, and climbing trees to raid weaver bird colonies.

Author Bio: Rachel Hill is a Southern Africa Travel specialist, a company specialising in luxury, tailor-made South Africa holidays, as well as holidays to other destinations in Southern Africa. Our experienced consultants will help you design your very own luxury South Africa holiday, and will be happy to provide you with a free quote.

Category: Travel
Keywords: south africa