Summary details for Dipsina multimaculata


If you are unsure of the identification of a snake you have observed, you can ask an expert for snake identification by uploading a photo to the Snakes of Namibia facebook page.

You can also get help from their amazing album of infographics of the common snake species in Namibia.

The facebook page also has contact details for snake catchers - people who are experienced in catching and removing snakes - throughout the country.

In the case of a snake bite, email "snakebite" to snakebitedoc@gmail.com. Namibia's snakebite expert - Dr Buys - will respond immediately.


 

Dwarf Beaked Snake

Dipsina multimaculata

The Dwarf Beaked Snake is a small snake which lives on the gravel plains of the Namib desert. These snakes are active during the day when they hunt small lizards. They can be found underneath bushes where they hide to escape the scorching heat.

The colour is extremely variable ranging from a light brown to a reddish brown with a series of patterns on the body and a distinctive V-shaped pattern on the back of the head.

When threatened the snake will coil and strike repeatedly, mimicking the venomous horned adder.

They have a mild venom which has no effect on humans or pets.

Dwarf beaked snake
Dwarf beaked snake © Photo: Francois Theart
Dwarf Beaked Snake
Dwarf Beaked Snake © Photo: Francois Theart
Dwarf Beaked Snake
Dwarf Beaked Snake © Photo: Tracy Robb
Dwarf Beaked Snake
Dwarf Beaked Snake © Photo: Tracy Robb
Dwarf Beaked Snake
Dwarf Beaked Snake © Photo: Tracy Robb
Dwarf Beaked Snake
Dwarf Beaked Snake © Photo: Tracy Robb

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