Beware of the Stiletto Snake
The Stiletto Snake (Atractaspis bibronii), previously known as a Mole Adder, is a highly venomous but harmless-looking snake that accounts for numerous snakebites during the summer months in Southern Africa….
Dwarf Adders of Southern Africa
The genus Bitis comprises of 18 species restricted to Africa with the exception of the Puff Adder (Bitis arietans) which has a limited distribution on the Arabian Peninsula. Of…
Everything you need to know about antivenom
The only effective treatment for severe snakebite envenomation from a potentially deadly snake is antivenom. Using antivenom is not easy and, like most drugs, it has its disadvantages but in…
How to find a snake remover in your area?
You’ve found a snake on your property. Perhaps in the house, office or factory? But you’re not sure where to find the contact details of someone who can remove it…
How to identify a potentially dangerous scorpion
There are around one hundred and fifty scorpion species in Southern Africa, some still undescribed. That makes identifying them a bit daunting. However, there is a great rule-of-thumb when it…
How to use snake handling equipment.
So you’ve purchased your first set of snake handling equipment, in the hopes of safely removing unwanted slithering visitors from your home and garden. The broom, bucket and braai tongs…
Identifying the Green Snakes of Southern Africa
There are nine snakes in southern Africa that may be green in colour. These snakes can be complicated to tell apart and many people struggle to do so. Only two…
More info on the Rinkhals
First described by Bonnaterre, back in 1790, the Rinkhals (Hemachatus haemachatus) is a snake often encountered in urban areas of the highveld. It is closely related to the true cobras…
Not a snake but a Legless Skink
Often confused with their serpent relatives, Legless Skinks are of the genus Acontias and are in fact lizards and not snakes. There are around 30 species in southern Africa,…
Pets and Snakebite
Cats are highly intelligent, very quick and seldom get bitten by snakes, even though they often catch snakes and bring live ones into the house. Dogs, on the other hand,…