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Vine Snakes
Vine Snakes (Thelotornis spp.)
Description – Three species of Vine Snakes are known from East Africa. All are slender snakes, which resemble a branch or vine, in patterned shades of brown and grey. The head is bright green above with a pale lower jaw. The tongue is bright red and black-tipped. Recorded to reach up to 1.6 meters in length.
Habits, habitat and food – These snakes prefer forested or savanna areas, where they lie motionless in trees and bushes, waiting to ambush chameleons, other lizards and small snakes. The bright red tongue may be moved slowly to attract lizards closer within striking range. They are often found sitting on fences around gardens and homes.
Characteristics – These are docile snakes that rely on incredible camouflage to avoid detection. If accidentally touched or harassed, they inflate the throat region as a warning. They are likely to lunge out and bite at this stage.
Venom – A potent, haemotoxic venom that causes bleeding and hemorrhaging. One confirmed death has been recorded in Tanzania from the Eastern Vine Snake. No antivenom is effective against the venom of these snakes and bites will be treated symptomatically.
Species in this group:
Forest Vine Snake (Thelotornis kirtlandii)
Eastern Vine Snake (Thelotornis mossambicus)
Usambara Vine Snake (Thelotornis usambaricus)