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This column is called “Snake Files”, and this month we’re talking about file snakes! What gives this particular snake its name? It might have something to do with the fact that it has a triangular body resembling a file, or perhaps it’s the snake’s pronounced scales that are rather rough to the touch. Either way, we have two common species of file snakes in southern Africa: the common file snake and the black file snake (pictured).
Both of these species are secretive – to see one is a rare occurrence. They spend a great deal of their time underground, sometimes emerging on hot summer nights in search of food.
File snakes have no venom and are completely harmless. In some African cultures they are even regarded as lucky – it’s believed that a visit from one will bring you good fortune.
