Lamprophis swazicus (Swazi rock snake)
Swazirotsslang [Afrikaans]
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Teleostomi (teleost fish) > Osteichthyes (bony fish) > Class:
Sarcopterygii (lobe-finned fish) > Stegocephalia (terrestrial vertebrates) >
Tetrapoda
(four-legged vertebrates) > Reptiliomorpha > Amniota >
Reptilia (reptiles) >
Romeriida > Diapsida > Lepidosauromorpha > Lepidosauria >
Squamata > Serpentes
(snakes) > Family: Colubridae > Subfamily:
Boodontinae > Genus:
Lamprophis
Identification
The Swazi rock snake can be identified by its uniform red
or brown colour, its prominent eyes, a thin body, a good tree climbing ability
and a strictly nocturnal lifestyle. It grows to an average length of 60 cm but
may reach 90 cm.
Distribution and habitat
The distribution of this snake is restricted to a narrow
band that follows South Africa's north eastern border from Swaziland to
Botswana. It is restricted to moist savanna habitat throughout its distribution.
Food
Feeds on small lizards (particularly geckos and skinks) and
small birds.
Predators, parasites and disease
This snake species is eaten by other snakes.
Reproduction
Oviparous (egg-laying), lays a small number of eggs in
summer.
Longevity
Has been known to live for 20 years in
captivity.
Medical importance
Non-venomous and not dangerous to man and not likely to
bite.
Links
References
-
Broadley, D.G. 1983. FitzSimons' Snakes of Southern
Africa. Delta Books, Johannesburg.
-
Marais, J. 2004. A Complete Guide to Snakes of
Southern Africa. Struik Publishing, Cape Town.
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