Boomslang
Description
The Boomslang is a large snake with a distinct head, and very large eyes with round pupils. Colouration is very variable. They may be leaf-green, bright green or black with dark grey, black-edged belly scales, or brick-red to rust-red, with an orange-pink belly.
Name
Boomslang [Dispholidus typus]
Class
Reptilia
Order
Squamata
Family
Colubridae
Subspecies
Although separated and sub-classified in the past there is now only one genus in the species
Length_F
1 260 mm
Length_M
1 290 mm
Distribution
The Boomslang is found throughout sub-Saharan Africa, occurring in the northern parts of the region and extending along the east and south coast to Cape Town.
Breeding
Mating occurs in spring, and 10 - 14 eggs are laid in tree hollows or leaf litter in summer. Incubation takes 2 - 3 months.
Venom
Venom is a potent haemotoxin that prevents blood clotting, causing death from haemorrhage, however the Boomslang is shy and seldom bites, usually incidents happen when the snake is been handled.
Diet
The diet of the Boomslang includes small vertebrates, particularly chameleons and birds.
