Least Concern Reptiles

Spotted Bush Snake

Philothamnus semivariegatus

Spotted Bush Snake is a tree-dwelling predator feeding on lizards and frogs in African savannas.

Scientific name	Philothamnus semivariegatus
Swahili name	Nyoka wa mbuga wenye madoa
Conservation status	Least Concern
Class	Reptilia
Order	Squamata
Family	Colubridae
Size	Male: body length approximately 70-100 cm; female: slightly smaller, about 60-90 cm

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How to identify

Body color is bright green with black spots; slender and agile body; small head, large and bright eyes; long tail suitable for climbing; non-venomous, no venom glands in the mouth.

Habitat

Open woodland savanna, shrubs, forest edges, and near farmlands; prefers to be active in trees and bushes.

Diet

Carnivorous, primarily preys on small lizards, frogs, small birds, and insects.

When it is active

Diurnal, active during the day.

Where it lives

Eastern and Southern Africa, including Kenya, Tanzania, Uganda, Zambia, and South Africa; commonly found in the Maasai Mara region of Kenya.

How to spot it

Search in bushes or trees early in the morning or during the day; pay attention to the black spots on the green body; avoid disturbing it.

Photography tips

Use a telephoto lens for photography, avoid close disturbance, choose well-lit times, and capture moments of climbing or feeding.

Threats

Habitat destruction and human disturbance; occasionally killed by mistake.

Similar species

Green tree snake (Philothamnus natalensis), distinguished by the spotted bush snake’s distinct black spots, whereas the green tree snake has a more uniform coloration.

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