Spotted bush snake

Introduction: The Spotted Bush snake (Philothammus semivariegatus) has excellent eyesight, quickly spotting prey and predator alike. They can climb rapidly and expertly and are difficult to detect in areas of vegetation. They prefer a habitat of open forest or savannah, extending into drier regions.

Threat displays include moving the head sideways, whilst the body remains still. The neck inflates revealing bright blue skin before it may strike.

Distribution: There is an isolated population in and around Aus. Other observations include Windhoek to Swakopmund extending north through Etosha National Park and as far north as Ruacana Falls and east to the Zambezi Region (formerly the Caprivi Strip) and Victoria Falls.

Diet: Hunts geckos, chameleons and tree frogs amongst the shrubs and bushes on rocky ridges or along river courses.

Colouring: A bright green to olive body with dark bars and spots adorning the forebody. The head is blue-green or green. The belly is white-greenish.

Breeding: Females lay between 3 and 20 elongated eggs in midsummer.

Size: Max SVL male 825mm, female 850mm.