This is the smallest adder in the world, averaging around 15-20 cm in length. It occurs in coastal dunes in Namaqualand and southern Namibia where it feeds on lizards and rain frogs. It is preyed upon by a variety of small carnivores and predatory birds as well as other snakes, but the biggest threat comes from habitat destruction, crossing roads and illegal collecting for the pet trade.
Full Name: Namaqua Dwarf Adder (Bitis schneideri)
Other Names: Namakwa Dwergadder
Classification: VENOMOUS
This is the smallest adder in the world, averaging around 15-20 cm in length. It occurs in coastal dunes in Namaqualand and southern Namibia where it feeds on lizards and rain frogs. It is preyed upon by a variety of small carnivores and predatory birds as well as other snakes, but the biggest threat comes from habitat destruction, crossing roads and illegal collecting for the pet trade.
The Namaqua Dwarf Adder is largely active during the day but may be seen moving around at night. It shuffles into soft sand with only the eyes and top of the head exposed in order to ambush prey. The venom of this snake is mildly cytotoxic causing pain and swelling. Antivenom is not effective and is not required.
