Fork-marked Sand Snake
Psammophis trigrammus
A slender arid-zone sand snake named for the fork-shaped marking on its head, found across the dry western landscapes of southern Africa.
- Adult length
- 0.5-0.9 m (1.6-3.0 ft)
- Range
- Southwestern Africa (Namibia, South Africa)
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Overview
The fork-marked sand snake is a slim, fast-moving snake inhabiting the arid western reaches of southern Africa. Its common name references a distinctive forked or Y-shaped marking on the head, a feature shared with some other members of the Psammophis genus.
How to identify it
- Slender body, sandy tan to gray-brown, often with faint longitudinal striping
- Distinctive fork- or Y-shaped dark marking on the top of the head
- Large eyes with round pupils
- Smooth scales
- Long, tapering tail
The forked head marking is the primary distinguishing feature separating this species from similarly built sand snakes in the same range.
Habitat & range
This species occurs in arid and semi-arid habitats of Namibia and western South Africa, favoring sandy flats, scrubland, and rocky terrain typical of these dry regions.
Behavior, diet & reproduction
Fork-marked sand snakes are diurnal and highly active, using speed and vision to hunt lizards and small invertebrates. They are alert and quick to flee into cover when disturbed. Reproduction is oviparous, with small clutches of eggs laid in sheltered underground sites.
Frequently asked questions
How big does it get?
Adults typically reach 0.5-0.9 m (1.6-3.0 ft).
Where is it found?
It occurs in arid regions of Namibia and western South Africa.
What gives the fork-marked sand snake its name?
A distinctive fork- or Y-shaped dark marking on top of its head.
Fork-marked Sand Snake guides
In-depth guides for identifying and understanding Fork-marked Sand Snake.
