The African coral snake (Aspidelaps lubricus) is a venomous elapid snake whose habitat is located in the southwestern, coastal land-strip of Africa. Fully grown adults can measure up to 60 cm in length. However, in northern Namibia adults can be longer but drabber. Although it is not among the most lethal serpent, its bite has caused human death. Being a nocturnal hunter of semi-desert areas, it preys on rodents and small lizards.
Physical Characteristics
The body of coral snake of Africa is cylindrical, whose scales color ranges from bright orange to yellowish brown, with incomplete black bands. Its head is round. It can be identified by a large rostral scale on the nose. The female lays from 3 to 11 eggs in the Summer. Like the cobra from India, it belongs to the Elapidae family in the taxonomy of snakes; therefore, it has hollow, permanently erect fangs, with its glands located at the rear of the upper jaw, secreting neurotoxin venom. Although it inhabits isolated areas, it can be aggressive if one runs into its territory and feel cornered.
Below, the African coral snake, whose Latin name is Aspidelaps lubricus.
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