A common burrowing species that is seldom encountered except after heavy rains or when soil is excavated. It may also be seen active on overcast days. This snake averages around 60 cm but may exceed a meter in length. If threatened it may hide its head under the body and move the tail tip to distract the aggressor and protect its head.
Full Name: Common Purple-glossed Snake (Amblyodipsas polylepis polylepis)
Other Names: Gewone Persglansslang
Classification: MILDLY VENOMOUS
A common burrowing species that is seldom encountered except after heavy rains or when soil is excavated. It may also be seen active on overcast days. This snake averages around 60 cm but may exceed a meter in length. If threatened it may hide its head under the body and move the tail tip to distract the aggressor and protect its head.
This snake is easily confused with several other small shiny black snakes such as the venomous stiletto snakes. It is docile, seldom attempting to bite. The venom of this snake has not been well-studied but is not considered dangerous to humans.
