Afro-Asian Sand Snake
Psammophis schokari
A slim, fast-moving diurnal sand snake distributed across arid regions of Africa and Asia, mildly venomous but not medically significant to humans.
- Venomous?
- Mildly venomous
- Adult length
- 0.8-1.5 m (2.6-5 ft)
- Range
- North Africa, the Middle East, and parts of South Asia
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Overview
The Afro-Asian Sand Snake is a widespread rear-fanged colubrid belonging to the diverse genus Psammophis, sand snakes and grass snakes known for their speed and slender build. It occupies a huge range spanning arid North Africa through the Middle East into parts of South Asia.
Although it possesses a mild venom used to subdue small prey, its bite is not considered medically significant to humans, and it is best known among herpetologists as a common, highly visible diurnal predator of deserts and scrublands.
How to identify it
- Very slender body with a long whip-like tail
- Smooth scales, coloration typically sandy tan, gray, or olive with faint longitudinal stripes
- Large eyes with round pupils adapted for daytime hunting
- Head narrow, barely distinct from neck
- Adults commonly 0.8-1.5 m
- Distinguished from vipers by slender build, round pupils, and smooth (not keeled) scales
Habitat & range
Inhabits deserts, semi-deserts, dry savanna, and rocky scrubland across a broad range from North Africa through the Arabian Peninsula and into parts of Pakistan and India. Often found near sparse vegetation or burrows used for shelter.
Behavior, diet & reproduction
Diurnal and highly active, foraging rapidly across open ground in pursuit of lizards, small mammals, and other snakes. Uses a mildly venomous rear-fang bite to help subdue prey. Reproduction is oviparous, with females laying small clutches of elongated eggs.
Frequently asked questions
Is the Afro-Asian Sand Snake venomous?
It is mildly venomous with rear fangs, but its bite is not considered medically significant to humans.
How big does the Afro-Asian Sand Snake get?
Adults typically range from 0.8 to 1.5 m (2.6-5 ft).
Where is the Afro-Asian Sand Snake found?
Across arid regions of North Africa, the Middle East, and parts of South Asia.
What does the Afro-Asian Sand Snake eat?
Primarily lizards, small mammals, and occasionally other snakes.
Afro-Asian Sand Snake guides
In-depth guides for identifying and understanding Afro-Asian Sand Snake.
