Western Thread Snake

A small thread snake that averages 20 cm with a maximum length of 32.2 cm. Unlike many of the other blackish thread snakes this one is light brown to purplish brown or pink in colour and with a paler belly.

Full Name: Western Thread Snake (Namibiana occidentalis)

Other Names: Namakwa-erdslangetjie, Westelike Draadslangetjie

Classification: HARMLESS

Map indicating the distribution of the Western Thread Snake in Southern Africa.

A small thread snake that averages 20 cm with a maximum length of 32.2 cm. Unlike many of the other blackish thread snakes this one is light brown to purplish brown or pink in colour and with a paler belly.

It inhabits the drier western region of northern Namaqualand and western Namibia where it may be found under rocks or on the surface after rains. Like the other thread snakes, it feeds largely on termites and their eggs.

It is thought to be egg-laying, but the number of eggs laid is not known. It poses no danger to humans.

African Snakebite Institute