Pseudaspis cana (Linnaeus, 1758)

Common Name and Adult Length

Pseudaspis cana, commonly known as the mole snake, can reach a total length of 2 meters (6 feet 7 inches) when fully grown, including the tail.

Body and Head Morphology

This species is characterized by a small head, pointed snout, and a firm, tubular-shaped body.

Venom Status

Like most members of the Lamprophiidae family, the mole snake is not venomous.

Mature Body Coloration

Mature mole snakes usually have a solid-colored body, which can range from yellow and brown to grey, and occasionally solid black.

Juvenile Coloration

Juvenile mole snakes have dark markings and spots that fade gradually as they age.

Geographic Color Variation

Body color may vary by geographic location: most southern specimens are black, while those from the northern part of the species' range are brown, reddish-brown, grey, or yellow.

Native Geographic Range

The mole snake's native range covers most of southern Africa, extending from Angola in the north to Kenya in the east and south to South Africa.

Protected Area Occurrence

It is common within Kalahari Gemsbok National Park.

Habitat and Shelter

This snake occupies abandoned burrows dug by other animals, and lives in a wide variety of habitats including South African Cape scrublands, Highveld plateaux, grasslands, mountainous regions, and desert areas.

Reproductive Mode

The mole snake is viviparous, meaning it gives birth to live young.

Mating Period

Mating occurs in late spring (October).

Litter Size

Females typically give birth to between 25 and 50 young per litter, though litters as large as 95 individuals have been recorded.

Newborn Length

Newborn mole snakes measure 20 to 30 centimeters in length at birth.