Snake tales: Master of camouflage – The Vine Snake
Vine Snakes have a potent haemotoxic venom, for which there is no anti-venom.
THIS Week, we’re taking a look at the master of camouflage – the Vine Snake.
What does it look like? Well, like what its name suggests. It looks just like a vine, or a twig, and it is near impossible to spot them unless they’re in an exposed area. It works incredibly well. The top of the head tends to be a light green colour, which aids their camouflage further. Their tongue is a bright red colour, and this may give their presence away. They often flick their tongue out when they feel threatened, and they will also inflate the neck region, making it look bigger and even more impressive.
Are they venomous? Yes, Vine Snakes have a potent haemotoxic venom, for which there is no anti-venom for (fortunately, bites can still be treated). Medical attention is required urgently, although the venom is slow acting. Vine Snake bites are rare, and envenomation is even more rare. Most bites from this species appear to be ‘dry bites’’, meaning no venom was injected-thankfully. Some people think that, because these snakes are back-fanged, they can’t give a quick bite, and that they have to chew. I can assure you that they can, as their mouth can open to 180 degrees or so.
Am I likely to be bitten by one? People fear this snake, because they know they probably won’t see it. Vine Snakes do not bite unsuspecting people who happen to walk past it. I have heard of people grabbing them by accident, not knowing that what they’re grabbing is no stick, but the snake has not lashed out, fortunately.
They’re docile snakes, which are reluctant to bite, but please do not tempt them. If you tease them or hurt them, you can then expect a bite. So leave them alone.
They spend most of their time in shrubs and trees, avoiding people.
What do they eat? Their favourite food is probably lizards, including chameleons, but they will also eat other snakes, such as the harmless Spotted Bush Snake.
Another name for this snake is the Bird Snake, as they often raid bird nests, feeding on the fledglings.
For snake rescues and removals around the greater Durban area, contact Nick Evans on 072 809 5806. For educational work, you can email him atnickevanskzn@gmail.com.
