Nature Wastes Nothing
The Spotted Bush Snake (Philothamnus semivariegatus) when it does not have definite markings across it's body may be misidentified as the green mamba.
Today we look at the snake which does not have fangs but sharp little teeth to capture then eat their meals. Catch of the day is a most abundant Tropical House Gecko (Hemidactylus mabouia). Catch and eat happened on the roof of our outdoor shed.
Snake is found from South Africa to Sudan and Guinea, very common although exceptionally shy.
Once you realize how alert they are with good eyesight, these excellent swimmers and climbers somewhat make you become quite comfortable having them around keeping nature in balance hunting lizards and tree frogs.
Adapted to living in man made structures I have taken photographs out my window with just over a metre space between us. Note turquoise flashing on scales apparently used when feeling threatened, I must have taken her/him by surprise sunbathing quite unintentionally.
More often than not they will disappear rather than face humans, hunting during the day these snakes grow to approximately a metre long. Relatively small rounded head with large black eyes with partial orange iris.
Tropical House Gecko (Hemidactylus mabouia) have moved with shipping of human goods to many places around the world, is native species to sub-Saharan Africa.
Average length 12.5 cm (approx 5 inches), hunt at night in low light conditions, however are able to alter colour slowly from light to dark depending on surroundings.
Now I don't mind these guys indoors either, got used to them, they enjoy meals on cockroaches, mosquitoes, flies and some other creepy crawlies one really doesn't enjoy!
When they vocalize making squeaking noises I originally thought it was a sound made through whipping their tails, apparently not, something we do witness when they appear on each others territory on the lounge wall or ceiling near lamps. A harmless lizard, does poop everywhere often staining painted walls, poop is fine cleaning if mosquitoes and cockroaches are taken out!
Now you may be wandering why the snake managed to hunt the lizard in broad daylight, lizards find comfortable spots to sleep the day away in hot spots warming up. Snake is very aware of where they will be, hunt them tucked underneath hot roofing.
Earth's natural clean-up crew, normally down to eat or be eaten from small to large we all belong in the food chain, nature cleans up without waste, shouldn't we too?
Previous encounter watching the snake vs bloukop lizard
All photography my own using Canon Powershot SX730 HS camera. Any queries or requests please drop a comment below or make contact with me, have a wonderful day! Photography without tripod, go with the flow wherever life takes you. NB: Amateur photographer in nature, keep smiling! All photography taken in the month of June 2022.
Thought for Today: "The predator lands on an unknown tree." - African proverb
