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TWIG SNAKE/VINE SNAKE/BIRD SNAKE
Thelotornis capensis It is a slender snake, sometimes confused with the Boomslang, but very recognisable by the elongated snout. The snout makes this snake resemble a twig or branch. On either side of the head and neck you will usualy find 1 or 2 dark streaks. It has a spear shaped head. The top of the head is usualy green or blue. The tongue is 2 different colors, it is red, and the fork is black. The Vine Snake has various different colors and patterns, but still easy recognisable. The adults reach lengths of 1.5 meters. They are diurnal snakes that are terrestrial and arboreal, but spend most of their time in trees. They can be found in the northern East coast, Swaziland, Mozambique and in the northern parts of South Africa including the Kruger Park. This snake has a very dangerous Heamotoxic venom. There are no antivenom availible for this snake. If bitten by this snake, the victim should get to a hospital as soon as possible. It uses this leathal venom to kill it's prey: Lizzards, Frogs, Birds and other Snakes. Scale count at midbody are in 19 rows (sometimes 17) with 144-162 ventral scales and 127-155 paired subcaudals. The anal shield is divided. Louis van Niekerk To see more pics and info about the Vine Snake and other snakes of South Africa, please go to my Facebook group: http://www.facebook.com/group.php?gid=96621376042 |