Common Wolf Snake

A small widespread nocturnal snake that averages 25–40 cm in length. It is generally black or brown in colour, often with faint white markings

Full Name: Common Wolf Snake (Lycophidion capense)

Classification: HARMLESS

Map indicating the distribution of the Common Wolf Snake (Lycophidion capense) within Africa.

A small widespread nocturnal snake that averages 25–40 cm in length. It is generally black or brown in colour, often with faint white markings. The belly may be black, brown or white. It is often confused with the venomous Stiletto Snake but has large brown eyes.

The Wolf Snake is known to coil and uncoil, hiding its head under its body as the Stiletto Snake may do. It feeds on lizards, especially smooth-scaled skinks, and has large, recurved teeth that it uses to hold onto lizards. This snake is harmless and seldom attempts to bite.

African Snakebite Institute