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.

Olive Grass Snake

Psammophis mossambicus

This is our largest grass or sand snake and can exceed 1.8 m in length. It is active during the day and is incredibly quick - without doubt one of our fastest snakes. Like most of the snakes in the genus Psammophis it feeds on other snakes but also takes lizards, small mammals, birds and frogs.
These snakes are back-fanged with the fangs far back in the mouth. They also have enlarged teeth in the front of the mouth that are useful when catching prey.
Mildly-venomous but venom has no effect on man.