Snakes > Sundevall's Shovelsnout

Sundevall's Shovelsnout / Sundevall se Graafneusslang

Prosymna sundevallii sundevallii

Size Adults may attain a maximum length of 31.5 cm.

Description This small snake is recognized by its flat, upturned snout. It has a short tail that ends in a sharp scale. The body colouration is very variable. The background colour can be various shades of brown and there is light and dark speckling and sometimes rows of darker blotches down the back. It is white underneath.

Biology Very little is known about this species. It is secretive, seldom seen and probably spends much time underground in loose soil. This completely harmless snake, like other members of the genus, feeds on reptile eggs.

Distribution The range of the species extends disjunctly from Northern Zimbabwe to the Western Cape.

Distribution in GCBC Probably occurs throughout the Corridor. More distribution records of this unusual snake are required.

Conservation Status Not listed. Sundevall's shovelsnout is protected under the Western Cape Nature Conservation Act as a protected species (Appendix II).

Threats None are known but this species has probably been negatively affected by agricultural and urban development.

Current studies None.