Cape Grass Snake

The Cape Grass Snake, also known as the Rhombic Skaapsteker, is a widespread and commonly encountered colubrid across southern Africa's grasslands and fynbos. Its striking rhomboid dorsal pattern and habitual presence near farmland have made it a familiar species to residents of the region.

It possesses mild venom delivered through rear fangs, primarily used for subduing small prey, and is not considered dangerous to humans, though bites can occasionally cause localized swelling.

• Grayish to olive-brown body marked with a series of dark, diamond-shaped (rhomboid) blotches down the back
• Smooth scales and a moderately slender build
• Round pupils and a head only slightly distinct from the neck
• Pale cream to yellowish belly
• Adults typically reach under a meter in length

The repeating diamond pattern along the spine is the most reliable identification feature, distinguishing it from plain-colored grass snakes and other Psammophylax species.

Common in grassland, fynbos, farmland, and open scrub across the Western and Eastern Cape and extending into other parts of southern Africa. Often found in disturbed habitats including gardens and agricultural land.

Diurnal and often seen basking in open grassy areas. It is generally not aggressive but may strike if closely cornered.

Feeds on a broad diet including small mammals, lizards, and other snakes, subdued with mild venom. Reproduction is oviparous, with clutches of roughly 6-20 eggs laid in summer.