Least Concern Reptiles

Boomslang

Dispholidus typus

Boomslang is an arboreal snake preying on birds and reptiles in African woodlands.

Scientific name	Dispholidus typus
Swahili name	Mamba wa mti
Conservation status	Least Concern
Class	Reptilia
Order	Squamata
Family	Colubridae
Size	Male: approximately 70-110 cm; female: slightly smaller, approximately 60-100 cm

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How to identify

Head flat and broad, eyes large with round pupils; body color variable, males mostly green, females mostly brown or olive; slender body with smooth scales; tail long and flexible; possesses venomous fangs capable of injecting neurotoxin through a bite

Habitat

Open woodland savanna, forest edges, shrubs and densely treed areas, primarily arboreal

Diet

Carnivorous, primarily preys on birds, bird eggs, small mammals, and other reptiles

When it is active

Diurnal, mainly active during the day

Where it lives

Widely distributed across sub-Saharan Africa, including Kenya, Tanzania, Uganda; commonly found in Maasai Mara National Reserve

How to spot it

Carefully observe trees and shrubs, especially in bright daylight; maintain a safe distance and avoid disturbance; use telephoto lenses for photography

Photography tips

Use natural light, choosing morning or afternoon soft light periods; use telephoto lenses to capture details; keep background simple to highlight body coloration

Threats

Habitat destruction, pesticide use, and human persecution

Similar species

Green tree snakes (Ahaetulla spp.) differ by having vertically elliptical pupils, more uniform coloration, and are non-venomous; African green snakes (Philothamnus spp.) are more slender and non-venomous

📖 how to spot the boomslang on safari 📖 boomslang facts habitat and conservation