Marbled Tree Snake
Dipsadoboa aulica
A small, nocturnal African tree snake with a mottled, marbled body pattern that provides effective camouflage among foliage.
- Venomous?
- Mildly venomous
- Adult length
- 0.5-0.9 m (1.5-3 ft)
- Range
- Eastern and Southern Africa
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Overview
The Marbled Tree Snake is a small arboreal colubrid found in wooded and forested habitats across eastern and southern Africa. Its irregular, mottled pattern gives it a marbled appearance that blends well with bark and leaf litter.
It is a mildly venomous rear-fanged species, with venom adapted for subduing small prey rather than posing any danger to humans.
How to identify it
- Small, slender body with an irregular marbled pattern of brown, gray, and cream
- Large eyes with vertically elliptical pupils suited for nocturnal activity
- Slightly enlarged rear teeth used in prey capture
- Smooth scales and a slender, laterally compressed body aiding arboreal movement
- Relatively small adult size compared to many other tree snakes
Its mottled, marbled coloration and small size help distinguish it from other sympatric arboreal colubrids.
Habitat & range
Inhabits woodland, forest edge, and riverine vegetation, typically in shrubs and low trees. It is found across parts of eastern and southern Africa, including Kenya, Tanzania, Mozambique, and South Africa.
It favors humid, well-vegetated habitats that provide ample cover and perching sites.
Behavior, diet & reproduction
Nocturnal and arboreal, hiding among foliage by day and becoming active at night to hunt. It preys mainly on small frogs and lizards, which it subdues with its mild venom.
It is oviparous, laying small clutches of eggs in sheltered vegetation or ground-level retreats.
Frequently asked questions
Is the Marbled Tree Snake venomous?
It is mildly venomous with rear fangs, posing little to no risk to humans.
How big does the Marbled Tree Snake get?
It typically reaches 0.5-0.9 m (1.5-3 ft).
Where is the Marbled Tree Snake found?
It occurs in wooded habitats across eastern and southern Africa.
What does the Marbled Tree Snake eat?
It preys mainly on small frogs and lizards.
Marbled Tree Snake guides
In-depth guides for identifying and understanding Marbled Tree Snake.
