Cross-marked grass snake
A species of Sand-snake, Also known as Cross-marked sand snake Scientific name : Psammophis crucifer Genus : Sand-snake
Cross-marked grass snake, A species of Sand-snake
Also known as:
Cross-marked sand snake
Scientific name: Psammophis crucifer
Genus: Sand-snake
Content
Description General Info
Photo By vynbos , used under CC-BY-SA-4.0 /Cropped and compressed from original 
Description
A shy, slightly venomous snake native to South Africa, the cross-marked grass snake lives in savannahs and other open areas. It is named for its cross-shaped markings. Like many snakes that hunt frogs and other reptiles, it is rear-fanged, with a mild venom that is not dangerous to humans. When disturbed, it will hide or ball up, and it rarely bites.
General Info
Lifespan
5-10 years
Diet
Cross-marked grass snake predominantly feeds on lizards and small rodents, employing active hunting techniques. Their diet also occasionally includes insects and birds, highlighting the species' adaptability and opportunistic feeding behavior.
Appearance
Cross-marked grass snake is a moderately sized snake, with a slender cylindrical body covered in smooth, shiny scales. Its primary coloration is olive-brown, often fading to a pale, sandy cream along its sides. This species is marked by a distinct black dorsal line running down the length of its back, and a black stripe on each side of its head, making for a striking contrast. Males and females look alike, and there are no significant differences among subspecies.
Behavior
Cross-marked grass snake is a diurnal serpent, primarily active during the day. It exhibits solitary characteristics, typically adopting a defensive attitude when threatened. Its unique behavior includes rapid digging, burrowing in sandy environments for camouflage and hunting small vertebrates and invertebrates. As a non-venomous species, it uses constriction to subdue its prey.
Population
Stable
Scientific Classification
Phylum
Chordates Class
Reptiles Order
Lizards and snakes Family
Lamprophiid snakes Genus
Sand-snake Species
Cross-marked grass snake 
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