A long and slender snake that averages 50-80 cm with a maximum length of 1 m. There are two or three distinct pale crossbars on the sides of the head.
Full Name: Cape Sand Snake (Psammophis leightoni)
Other Names: Kaapse Sweepslang, Leigthon’s Sand Snake, Kaapse Sandslang
Classification: MILDLY VENOMOUS
A long and slender snake that averages 50-80 cm with a maximum length of 1 m. There are two or three distinct pale crossbars on the sides of the head.
It is restricted to the west coast and occurs from the Strand along the west coast into southern Namibia. This species favours coastal vegetation where it hunts for lizards, rodents and snakes during the day, often with the front third of the body well off the ground.
This snake, like most sand snakes, is very quick and will seek refuge in the nearest shrub if disturbed. Though back-fanged and venomous, the venom of this snake is mild and has virtually no effect on humans.
