Cape sand snake
A species of Sand-snake Scientific name : Psammophis leightoni Genus : Sand-snake
Cape sand snake, A species of Sand-snake
Scientific name: Psammophis leightoni
Genus: Sand-snake
Content
Description General Info
Photo By jacquesmerwe923 , used under CC-BY-SA-4.0 /Cropped and compressed from original
Description
The cape sand snake is a mildly venomous snake that can be found in southern Africa. This nocturnal predator feeds exclusively on lizards and rodents. As its name suggests, this species is often seen dwelling in the sand. It was named after Dr. Gerald Rowley Leighton, a British herpetologist.
General Info
Lifespan
8-10 years
Diet
Cape sand snake exhibits a carnivorous dietary habit, deriving nourishment principally from reptiles. Arthropods, specifically scorpions and spiders, as well as small mammals further supplement its diet.
Appearance
Cape sand snake is a slender, medium-sized snake with smooth scales. Its coloration varies from olive-green to reddish-brown, usually with a white or cream underbelly. Unique features include a series of dark longitudinal stripes extending from the head to the tail, enhancing its streamlined shape. Unlike many snake species, there are no conspicuous differences in appearance between genders, age groups, or subspecies.
Behavior
Cape sand snake is a solitary species, exhibiting diurnal habits with peak activity during twilight. This species has strong territoriality, defending its territory effectively. Known for its fast and agile hunting strategy, cape sand snake actively forages on the ground, preying mainly on frogs and lizards. Notably, they employ visual camouflage to blend with desert landscapes.
Population
Stable
Photo By jacquesmerwe923 , used under CC-BY-SA-4.0 /Cropped and compressed from original
Scientific Classification
Phylum
Chordates Class
Reptiles Order
Lizards and snakes Family
Lamprophiid snakes Genus
Sand-snake Species
Cape sand snake