Full Name: Many-spotted Reed Snake (Amplorhinus multimaculatus)
Other Names: Rietslang
Classification: MILDLY VENOMOUS
Map indicating the distribution of the Many-spotted Reed Snake in Southern Africa.
A slow-moving and somewhat secretive snake but may be locally common and may be mistaken for the Spotted Skaapsteker. Adults average around 50 cm, but may reach 63 cm. This snake is often found in reed beds and riverine vegetation but also found in Fynbos and montane grassland. Like the Spotted Skaapsteker, it is active during the day and will forage for food, preferring frogs, lizards and small rodents. If disturbed, it may coil into a tight spring like the Slug-eater. Most individuals are brown to olive brown with light stripes down the body, but bright green individuals are also found. The venom of this snake is not considered dangerous to humans but may cause local swelling.
