Gunther's Garter Snake
Elapsoidea guentherii
A small, secretive East African garter snake, part of the elapid genus Elapsoidea, with weak venom and burrowing habits.
- Venomous?
- Mildly venomous
- Adult length
- 0.4-0.6 m (16-24 in)
- Range
- East Africa
Found a snake like this?
Identify any snake from a photo, free.
Overview
Gunther's garter snake (Elapsoidea guentherii) is a small elapid found in East Africa, part of the same genus as Sundevall's garter snake. It shares the fossorial, secretive lifestyle typical of the group.
It is only mildly venomous and considered harmless to humans in practical terms, with its small size and weak venom limiting any medical significance.
How to identify it
A small, smooth-scaled, banded snake.
- Body typically patterned with dark crossbands or blotches against a lighter background
- Small head not distinct from the neck
- Smooth, glossy scales and cylindrical body
- Round pupils
- Adults typically 0.4-0.6 m
Habitat & range
Found in savanna, grassland, and woodland habitats of East Africa, often in areas with loose or sandy soil suitable for burrowing. It shelters under surface debris, rocks, and leaf litter.
Behavior, diet & reproduction
Nocturnal and fossorial, spending much of its life hidden underground or under cover, emerging at night to forage for small reptiles and amphibians. It is generally docile and non-aggressive. Reproduction is oviparous.
Frequently asked questions
Is Gunther's garter snake dangerous to humans?
No, it is only mildly venomous and considered harmless in practical terms due to its small size and weak venom.
Where is Gunther's garter snake found?
It occurs in savanna and grassland habitats of East Africa.
What does Gunther's garter snake eat?
It preys on small reptiles and amphibians.
Is Gunther's garter snake fossorial?
Yes, it spends much of its time burrowed underground or hidden under surface debris.
Gunther's Garter Snake guides
In-depth guides for identifying and understanding Gunther's Garter Snake.
