Snakes of Nambiti

Across KwaZulu-Natal one can find over eighty different species of snake. Nambiti is not only home to the Big 5 but also home to various snake species, with around 19 venomous and 29 non-venomous species found around Nambiti Private Game Reserve.

The snakes of Nambiti can be described in many ways: they come in various sizes, from big to small, and lengths, from long to short. Their colours range from vibrant and colourful to more subdued and pale. Additionally, some are venomous while others are not, showcasing the incredible diversity of these fascinating creatures.

Every snake possesses its own distinct characteristics, and there is a wealth of beauty to discover in each species. Some thrive in trees, while others find their homes among rocks and plants. Certain snakes are adapted to aquatic environments, and some even burrow underground. They come in various sizes and shapes, some are large, others are long, and some are short and slender. While some snakes are venomous, others may have mild venom, and many are completely harmless. These fascinating creatures are vital to our ecosystems, helping to manage populations of animals like rats and mice, which in turn aids in preventing the spread of diseases.

Some of the venomous snakes found on Nambiti include: the Mozambique Spitting Cobra (Naja mossambicus) also commonly known as the Mfezi; the Boomslang (Dispholidus typus); and the Puff Adder (Bitis arietans).

There are three main types of venom; Neurotoxic, Hemotoxic and Cytotoxic. Neurotoxic venom attacks the nervous system and can lead to paralysis or death. Hemotoxic venom stops blood from clotting and can cause internal bleeding. The Boomslang and Vine snakes possess this type of venom. Cytotoxic venom destroys the cells and tissues within your body. The Puff Adder and Mozambique Spitting Cobra possess this type of venom.

Some of the non-venomous snakes of Nambiti include the Brown House Snake (Boaedon capensis), the Spotted Bush Snake (Philothamnus semivariegatus) and Natal Green Snake (Philothamnus natalensis natalensis). They are more commonly found around buildings and they prey on small lizards and frogs. This helps to keep the populations of these species in check.

Another non-venomous snake found within Nambiti is the Southern African Python (Python natalensis). This is the largest snake in Zululand reaching measurements of up to 6m and a weight of around 65kg. Despite it being a protected species, the Python has been wiped out in many historical areas. They feed on numerous species of small mammals, and often prey on livestock, which contributes to their persecution.

Snakes play a vital role in our ecosystem, and it’s essential for us to strive to understand them more deeply. If you happen to encounter one, take a moment to appreciate and learn about these fascinating creatures.