Snakes > Slender Thread Snake

Slender Thread Snake / Slanke Draadslangetjie

Leptotyphlops gracilior

Size Adults reach a maximum length of 22.5 cm.

Description A very small, slender, brown to black snake, with a very small, blunt head and minute eyes. The tail is very short and has a blunt tip.

Biology It is found in termite nests. Diet is unknown, but it probably preys on termites and possibly ant larvae too as do other species in this genus. Very little is known about this species.

Distribution Succulent Karoo from Worcester to the Cederberg and possibly further north.

Distribution in GCBC Probably occurs throughout the Corridor, except the coastal strip. More distribution records are needed for this species.

Conservation Status Not listed.

Threats Ploughing exposes large numbers of this species around Nieuwoudtville and this may have a detrimental effect through direct injury to the snakes or by destroying the termite nests on which they probably depend.

Current studies None.