Cape Wolf Snake
Lycophidion capense
A small, nocturnal African colubrid named for its enlarged, fang-like front teeth used to grip smooth-scaled reptile prey such as lizards and other snakes.
- Venomous?
- Non-venomous
- Adult length
- 0.3-0.5 m (1-1.6 ft)
- Range
- Sub-Saharan Africa
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Overview
The Cape wolf snake is a small, secretive nocturnal snake widespread across sub-Saharan Africa, named for the prominent recurved teeth at the front of its jaws that resemble a wolf's fangs. These teeth aid in gripping smooth, slippery prey.
It is non-venomous and harmless to humans, relying on its specialized dentition rather than venom to secure prey.
How to identify it
- Dark brown, grayish, or blackish coloration, sometimes with pale-edged scales creating a faintly speckled appearance
- Smooth, glossy scales
- Slender, cylindrical body
- Small head with prominent, slightly protruding front teeth visible on close inspection
- Round pupils
- Adults typically 30-50 cm long
Its dark, somewhat plain coloration and small size distinguish it from more boldly patterned African colubrids; the enlarged front teeth are a key but subtle diagnostic feature.
Habitat & range
Found in savanna, grassland, woodland, and rocky habitats across much of sub-Saharan Africa, often sheltering under logs, rocks, and leaf litter. Also occurs in disturbed and agricultural areas.
Behavior, diet & reproduction
Nocturnal and secretive, spending daylight hours hidden under cover objects. Preys on lizards, especially skinks, as well as other small snakes, gripping and subduing them with its enlarged front teeth rather than venom or constriction alone. Reproduction is oviparous, with females laying small clutches of eggs.
Frequently asked questions
Is the Cape wolf snake venomous?
No, it is non-venomous and harmless to humans.
Why is it called a wolf snake?
It has enlarged, fang-like front teeth resembling a wolf's, used to grip smooth-scaled prey like lizards.
What does the Cape wolf snake eat?
It feeds mainly on lizards, particularly skinks, and occasionally other small snakes.
Where is the Cape wolf snake found?
It occurs widely across sub-Saharan Africa in savanna, woodland, and rocky habitats.
Cape Wolf Snake guides
In-depth guides for identifying and understanding Cape Wolf Snake.
