SANParks is one of the most visited sites in terms of tourism. This is why it’s important to know the different areas which you may be walking through during sunny days.
Keep an eye out for the lurking crawlers!
As summer approaches, snakes are much more prone to be in warm areas as this season is the time when the species will be finding their comfortable warm spots in bushes and natural habitats.
However, according to SANParks, these snakes will not harm you unless they feel threatened by you. So, it is important to keep a lookout for these snakes as they do a good job of blending in with the environment they are in.
In an update to their Facebook page, SANParks shared that the snakes are usually shy and won’t interact with humans. However, the one snake you will encounter the most is the puff adder.
This is due to the fact that it enjoys warm spots such as rocks and pathways. They are also known for moving through the fynbos ecosystem quite leisurely.
SANParks is home to 22 snake species
Presently, Table Mountain National Park is home to at least 22 different snake species. While ten of them are non-venomous, they can give a nasty bite. That is if they’re provoked. Some of these species include the Puff Adder, the Cape Cobra, the Boomslang, Rinkhals, and the Berg Adder.
Right now, the warning from SANParks is mostly aimed at the hikers or runners who make use of the nature reserves as they will most likely encounter snakes in these regions.
To avoid contact with a snake, it is useful to be vigilant about the space around you and spot the specie before you find yourself needing to escape a dangerous situation. The safety of the park’s visitors is always a priority. More information can be found on the SANParks website and its social media pages.
