Dwarf Beaked Snake
Dipsina multimaculata
A tiny, patterned nocturnal snake of arid southern Africa, known for its spotted body and slightly upturned snout.
- Venomous?
- Mildly venomous
- Adult length
- 20-30 cm (8-12 in)
- Range
- Southern Africa (Namibia, Botswana, South Africa)
Found a snake like this?
Identify any snake from a photo, free.
Overview
The dwarf beaked snake is a small, slender species inhabiting the drier parts of southern Africa. Despite the common name shared with true blind snakes, it is a rear-fanged colubrid-like species with functional eyes and a patterned body.
It is inoffensive and rarely encountered due to its small size and nocturnal, secretive habits.
How to identify it
- Slender body with numerous small dark spots or blotches on a pale grey-brown ground color
- Slightly upturned, pointed snout
- Large eyes with round pupils, unlike true blind snakes
- Smooth scales
- Maximum length under 30 cm
- Distinguished from true beaked blind snakes by its visible eyes and spotted pattern
Habitat & range
Found in arid savanna, semi-desert, and sandy scrubland across Namibia, Botswana, and parts of South Africa, often sheltering under surface debris and loose sand.
Behavior, diet & reproduction
Nocturnal and terrestrial, feeding mainly on small lizards and their eggs. Uses mild rear-fanged venom to subdue prey. Docile and rarely encountered by people; reproduction is oviparous.
Frequently asked questions
Is the dwarf beaked snake dangerous?
No, it is only mildly venomous with venom adapted for small lizard prey and poses no threat to humans.
How is it different from true blind snakes?
It has visible functional eyes and a patterned body, unlike the vestigial-eyed true blind snakes.
What does it eat?
Primarily small lizards and reptile eggs.
Where does it occur?
In arid regions of Namibia, Botswana, and South Africa.
Dwarf Beaked Snake guides
In-depth guides for identifying and understanding Dwarf Beaked Snake.
