Heavy rains increase KZN snake activity
- SOUTH AFRICA
Southern Stiletto Snake showing it's classic defensive posture when threatened by arching the neck. Photo: Martin Rodrigues/Crocworld Conservation Centre
Southern Stiletto Snake showing the small inconspicuous eyes. Photo: Nick Evans
Southern Stiletto Snake showing it's classic defensive posture when threatened by arching the neck. Photo: Martin Rodrigues/Crocworld Conservation Centre
Southern Stiletto Snake showing the small inconspicuous eyes. Photo: Nick Evans
DURBAN – KwaZulu-Natal experienced record-breaking rains this past weekend – with several areas noting more than 100mm over the two-day period – and while this is much-needed relief for the drought-stricken province, residents are urged to look out for the emergence of certain ground-dwelling snakes.
Martin Rodrigues, manager of the Crocworld Conservation Centre near Scottburgh, explained several snake species that live just below the ground are known to emerge after heavy rains.
“These fossorial species are forced to leave their subterranean homes when the ground becomes saturated, as the oxygen levels diminish,” said Rodrigues.
Martin Rodrigues, manager of the Crocworld Conservation Centre near Scottburgh, explained several snake species that live just below the ground are known to emerge after heavy rains.
“These fossorial species are forced to leave their subterranean homes when the ground becomes saturated, as the oxygen levels diminish,” said Rodrigues.
“Most of these snakes are harmless to humans, however, there are a few exceptions to watch out for. This includes the southern stiletto snake, also known as the Bibron's burrowing asp or side-stabbing adder.
"Although their bite is not deadly, they have a potent cytotoxic venom so the bite is very painful and causes moderate to severe swelling in most cases, and may lead to the loss of a limb or digit as the venom breaks down the tissue cells surrounding the bite.”As this is a nocturnal species, the snake is most likely to be encountered in the evening when the species has heightened activity, particularly from the onset of dusk until two to three hours later.
Rodrigues described the snake as relatively small, averaging 30 to 40cm in length although it has been known to get as long as 70cm. It can be identified by its purple-brown to black colouring with a creamy white, dark brown or black underbelly.
“The southern stiletto snake is common throughout most of KwaZulu-Natal and is responsible for numerous bites on humans every year,” he continued.
“The reason this snake is responsible for so many bites is possibly because they are mistaken for a harmless species. This is because of their small size and inconspicuous appearance.”
He said, in addition to the innocuous form, the southern stiletto snake cannot be held safely behind the head because its fangs are positioned horizontally, facing towards the back of the upper jaw.
He said, in addition to the innocuous form, the southern stiletto snake cannot be held safely behind the head because its fangs are positioned horizontally, facing towards the back of the upper jaw.
If someone attempts to hold the snake behind the head, it simply twists its head sideways, piercing a finger with its fang.
Snakes in the warmer parts of KwaZulu-Natal are active throughout the year, however, in the cooler regions, activity may decrease during the winter period.
Rodrigues urged residents who encounter any snake matching the stiletto snake’s appearance and behaviour not to attempt to touch or kill it as this is when bites are most likely to occur. Instead, he suggested, keep a watchful eye on the snake from a safe distance of 3m or more and call for assistance.
Snakes in the warmer parts of KwaZulu-Natal are active throughout the year, however, in the cooler regions, activity may decrease during the winter period.
Rodrigues urged residents who encounter any snake matching the stiletto snake’s appearance and behaviour not to attempt to touch or kill it as this is when bites are most likely to occur. Instead, he suggested, keep a watchful eye on the snake from a safe distance of 3m or more and call for assistance.
- eNCA
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