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.

Many-horned Adder

Bitis cornuta

The Many-horned Adder is a dwarf adder, rarely exceeding 60 cm. As the name suggests they have more than one horn above each eye.
They inhabit the rocky outcrops along the south western coastline. These snakes feed on a variety of small rodents, lizards and potentially birds.
This snake is venomous but not considered to be deadly. The venom is cytotoxic causing severe swelling, blistering and necrosis (loss of tissue). Severe bites may lead to the loss of digits.