Juvenile Mole Snake
Image Credit · Morné Muller
Family: Lamprohiidae; Genus: Pseudaspis; Species: cana
During the construction of a new wildlife boma near the Haak-en-Steek (service road entrance) section of Kameelhoek, another unsuspected encounter reminded us of the small, and in no case insignificant organisms lurking around us. Whilst discussing details of the building operation one of the Kameelhoek site managers (Flip) noticed the movement of something behind him. Quickly shifting his attention down towards his feet, he bravely kept his cool as he identified what seemed to be a snake curling up behind the shade of his boot. Whilst keeping his pose, the rest of us rushed in, in order to identify the name of this little “critter”. At first, someone uttered the name “puff-adder”, but this was not the case. Another mention of “night-adder”, which resembled our newfound friend, did not make the cut. But, a closer inspection did, however, reveal the identity of a juvenile mole snake using Flip as cover from the searing sun and hot sand (Figure 1).
Mole snakes are relatively harmless, but care should be taken during encounters. Adults are muscular constrictors with an array of sharp pin-like teeth used to grab hold of rodents during hunts. These snakes are non-venomous, but the nature of their teeth allow them to inflict a serious bite to prey or while trying to defend themselves. Mole Snakes may be seen basking in the sun during early mornings and spend most of their time underground in rodent burrows searching for prey.
These snakes play an important part in regulating rodent populations, and can also fall victim to predatory birds, species of mongoose and foxes. The ability of Mole Snakes to resemble other, more venomous species allows them to scare away potential predators and threats. At a juvenile stage, Mole Snakes have bright colours and markings that resemble Night Adders. As they mature, the colours and markings slowly disappear leading to a relatively medium to large snake (< 2 meters in length) easily confused for being a venomous Cape Cobra or Stiletto snake. Unique according to design and function Moles Snakes are considered an important part of an ecosystem which should be conserved and protected.