Nature’s call – Black-headed centipede-eater
This little snake I photographed really did try its best to bite me, but never even pierced my finger.
I want to introduce you to one of the most unique snakes that are found in the Durban South area, the black-headed centipede-eater also known as the Cape centipede eater.
As the name suggests these snakes exclusively feed on centipedes. They reach a maximum length of 40cm but are seldom longer that 30cm. These snakes are about as fat as a pencil; they are light brown in colour with a distinctly darker almost black coloured head.
Recently I found one at the Kenneth Stainbank Nature Reserve, a first for me since I have been actively photographing small creatures, although I have had many phone calls over the years from concerned Yellowwood Park residents who have found them in their gardens. The folks have always been nice and understanding, allowing the snakes to continue to live in their gardens.
These snakes have a mild venom that is not considered harmful to humans, plus their teeth and jaws are really tiny, making it difficult for this snake to even pierce human skin.
This little snake I photographed really did try its best to bite me, but never even pierced my finger.
The snakes will catch a centipede, slowly chewing its venom into the spine of the centipede, waiting for the venom to take effect before swallowing the centipede head first. If you have ever been bitten by a centipede you will know how painful it is, so these harmless little snakes should be quite welcome in the garden.
If you would like to make contact with Warren to have some of your interesting insects, snakes or spiders identified, send him a WhatsApp message or call him on 072-211-0353.
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