Yellow-bellied House Snake

The yellow-bellied house snake is a small, secretive snake found in restricted parts of South Africa, part of the broader radiation of harmless African house snakes. Its bright yellow ventral coloration, contrasting with a duller dorsum, gives the species its common name.

Being entirely non-venomous, this species poses no risk to people and is primarily of interest for its coloration and its place among the diverse house snake group of the region.

• Dark brown to blackish-brown dorsal coloration
• Bright yellow belly, often extending partway up the flanks
• Smooth, glossy scales
• Small head not markedly distinct from the neck
• Round pupils

The stark contrast between a dark back and vivid yellow underside is the most useful identifying trait.

This species is restricted to parts of South Africa, occupying grassland, fynbos, and rocky habitats where it shelters under stones, logs, and leaf litter. It favors areas with moderate to high rainfall and dense ground cover.

The yellow-bellied house snake is nocturnal and secretive, feeding on small lizards and occasionally frogs and small rodents, subdued by constriction. It rarely ventures into the open during daylight, preferring concealment beneath surface debris. Reproduction is oviparous, with small clutches of eggs laid in sheltered, moist retreats.