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Cape Vine Snake

The Cape vine snake, Thelotornis capensis, masterfully blends into its arboreal habitat with its slender, vine-like body and cryptic coloration. A skilled predator, it relies on its keen eyesight and precision strikes to hunt birds and lizards, playing a vital role in controlling prey populations within its ecosystem.

8-12 years
Lifespan
Length: 1.2192 m
Size
Brown, Grey
Color
Low
Aggression
Least Concern
Conservation Status
Stable
Population Trend
Characteristics
Thelotornis capensis, commonly known as the Cape vine snake, is a slender, arboreal snake found in sub-Saharan Africa. It has a distinctive elongated head and a thin body that aids in camouflage among vines and branches. Its coloration ranges from brown to green, with a pointed snout and large eyes for excellent vision.
Distribution Range of the Cape Vine Snake
Thelotornis capensis, commonly known as the Cape vine snake or twig snake, is native to sub-Saharan Africa. Its geographical distribution includes countries such as South Africa, Botswana, Namibia, Zimbabwe, Mozambique, and parts of Zambia and Angola.
Cape Vine Snake's Habitat
Environmental Conditions
The Cape vine snake typically inhabits savanna and woodland regions, where it can often be found in areas with dense shrubbery and trees. The climate in these regions is generally warm, with distinct wet and dry seasons.
Ecological Niche
Thelotornis capensis is an arboreal species, meaning it spends most of its life in trees and bushes. It is well adapted to a life in foliage, where its slender body and cryptic coloration help it blend into its environment. This snake primarily preys on birds and lizards, using its excellent camouflage to ambush its prey.