Cape File Snake
Gonionotophis capensis
A distinctive African colubrid with unusually rough, file-like body scales and a specialized diet that includes other snakes, notably venomous species.
- Venomous?
- Non-venomous
- Adult length
- 0.6-1.2 m (2-4 ft)
- Range
- Southern and eastern Africa
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Overview
The Cape file snake is a nocturnal African colubrid notable for its rough-textured scales, which give the species its common name, and for a diet that often includes other snakes, including venomous ones. It exhibits a degree of resistance to the venom of some prey species.
It is non-venomous and poses no danger to humans, relying on constriction and specialized feeding behavior rather than venom.
How to identify it
- Dark brown, grayish, or blackish coloration, sometimes with a faintly speckled or mottled appearance
- Strongly keeled, rough-textured scales giving a file-like feel, unusual among African colubrids
- Triangular cross-section to the body in some individuals
- Small head barely distinct from the neck
- Round pupils
- Adults typically 60-120 cm long
Its unusually rough, keeled scales are the key diagnostic feature separating it from smoother-scaled African colubrids.
Habitat & range
Found in savanna, grassland, and moist woodland habitats across southern and eastern Africa, often near termite mounds, rock crevices, and leaf litter where it shelters and hunts.
Behavior, diet & reproduction
Nocturnal and secretive, emerging at night to forage. Notable for preying on other snakes, including venomous species, subduing them through constriction and apparent partial resistance to some venoms. Also feeds on lizards and small mammals. Reproduction is oviparous, with females laying small clutches of eggs.
Frequently asked questions
Is the Cape file snake venomous?
No, it is non-venomous and relies on constriction to subdue prey.
Why is the Cape file snake unusual?
It has unusually rough, file-textured scales and is known to prey on other snakes, including venomous species.
Where is the Cape file snake found?
It occurs in southern and eastern Africa in savanna, grassland, and moist woodland habitats.
What does the Cape file snake eat?
Its diet includes other snakes, lizards, and small mammals.
Cape File Snake guides
In-depth guides for identifying and understanding Cape File Snake.
