Cape Grass Snake
Psammophylax rhombeatus
A common southern African grass snake with a diamond-patterned back.
- Adult length
- 0.5-1.0 m (1.6-3.3 ft)
- Range
- Southern Africa
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Overview
The Cape Grass Snake, also known as the Rhombic Skaapsteker, is a widespread and commonly encountered colubrid across southern Africa's grasslands and fynbos. Its striking rhomboid dorsal pattern and habitual presence near farmland have made it a familiar species to residents of the region.
How to identify it
- Grayish to olive-brown body marked with a series of dark, diamond-shaped (rhomboid) blotches down the back
- Smooth scales and a moderately slender build
- Round pupils and a head only slightly distinct from the neck
- Pale cream to yellowish belly
- Adults typically reach under a meter in length
The repeating diamond pattern along the spine is the most reliable identification feature, distinguishing it from plain-colored grass snakes and other Psammophylax species.
Habitat & range
Common in grassland, fynbos, farmland, and open scrub across the Western and Eastern Cape and extending into other parts of southern Africa. Often found in disturbed habitats including gardens and agricultural land.
Behavior, diet & reproduction
Diurnal and often seen basking in open grassy areas. It may strike if closely cornered.
Feeds on a broad diet including small mammals, lizards, and other snakes. Reproduction is oviparous, with clutches of roughly 6-20 eggs laid in summer.
Frequently asked questions
How big does the Cape Grass Snake get?
Adults typically reach 0.5-1.0 m (1.6-3.3 ft).
Where is the Cape Grass Snake found?
It is widespread across grassland and farmland habitats in southern Africa, especially the Cape region.
What is distinctive about its pattern?
A series of dark diamond-shaped blotches running along its back, giving it the alternative name Rhombic Skaapsteker.
Cape Grass Snake guides
In-depth guides for identifying and understanding Cape Grass Snake.
