Hissing sand snake
A species of Sand-snake Scientific name : Psammophis sibilans Genus : Sand-snake
Hissing sand snake, A species of Sand-snake
Scientific name: Psammophis sibilans
Genus: Sand-snake
Content
Description General Info
Description
The hissing sand snake is a small to medium-sized venomous snake, very common in North Africa. Despite its common name, the Egyptian hissing sand snake is rarely seen in sand, and it’s commonly seen during the day around cultivated areas or in gardens. Very fast and alert, this snake is able to raise its head, just like a cobra. It can be aggressive, but fortunately, its venom is harmless to humans.
General Info
Lifespan
8-10 years
Diet
Hissing sand snake predominantly feeds on small mammals, like rodents, making it an effective natural pest controller. Its diet also includes reptiles, birds, and amphibians, revealing its adaptive needs in a variety of ecosystems.
Appearance
The hissing sand snake is a slender, elongated snake with smooth, shiny scales. Adults average between 70 to 90 centimeters in length. Its coloration is primarily olive, brown, or grey, often with dark longitudinal lines or bands. The underside is typically pale. A rapid and agile serpent, it navigates the environment using its small, sharp teeth and forked tongue. There are no discernible differences in appearance between males and females or among subspecies.
Behavior
Known for its agile, rapid movements, hissing sand snake demonstrates foraging behavior chiefly during the day. Generally a solitary species, it exhibits aggressive defensive strategies against perceived threats, including inflating its body and producing a threatening hiss. Hissing sand snake is a non-venomous species and, as such, relies on dexterous hunting rather than venom to catch prey, which includes mammals, birds, and reptiles.
Scientific Classification
Phylum
Chordates Class
Reptiles Order
Lizards and snakes Family
Lamprophiid snakes Genus
Sand-snake Species
Hissing sand snake 
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