Psammophis mossambicus
A common inhabitant of moist savannas and grasslands, often found in marshy areas, the Olive Grass Snake is distributed from Uganda and the Republic of Congo southwards to the northeastern provinces of South Africa (Limpopo, Mpumalanga and Kwazulu-Natal).
These snakes are diurnal, strongly built, very fast, and great climbers. They prey mainly on lizards, frogs, small mammals and birds and even other snakes, including venomous species, that is subdued by its own venom while being held in the mouth. Olive Grass Snakes will easily bite when handled and their venom has a mild effect on humans, leading mainly to nausea and localized pain and swelling.
During the summer months females lay clutches of 10-30 eggs. The eggs hatch about 2 months after laying. Adults may attain a length of 1.8m, with females being larger than males.
The IUCN lists the Olive Grass Snake as being of least concern.
de Wets Wild 
Fantastic photos of a handsome snake It is not one I have ever seen. How interesting about them catching venomous snakes!
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Isn’t it amazing that even venomous snakes have their predators!?
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I’m in the minority in thinking that snakes are so cool! I haven’t seen this species. Thanks for sharing!
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We’re with you, Susie. They’re fascinating animals and fill a vital niche in their natural habitats.
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Ek respekteer ‘n slang, maar kan nou eenmaal nie van hulle hou nie. Het so baie slange daar in Eshowe gehad!
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Hulle floreer natuurlik in Eshowe se klimaat en omgewing!
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Beslis
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Let it be said that I find snakes absolutely fascinating and am – again – impressed by these excellent photographs.
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You’re very kind – again – Anne! Thank you.
We also find snakes fascinating, and really value their place in the ecosystem.
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Snakes are such amazing creatures, although I really don’t love running into them. 😄 Great to learn about them from you. Thanks, Dries and Joubert. 😃🐍
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Mutual respect is definitely the best way when it comes to snakes, Jane. Especially when you are in doubt whether it’s a venomous species or not.
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Isn’t it amazing how quickly snakes can move, even though they go about it very differently?
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It really is, Janet! Mind-boggling to see them race away.
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Dis maar ‘n bekende slang wat mens gereeld kan teenkom in die natuur. Baie bly hier is nie slange nie want hul bly maar gevaarlik as hul in ‘n hoek gedruk word.
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Jy is reg, Ineke – veral in warmer weer loop mens hierdie kalant dikwels raak.
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