The Boomslang has far greater colour variation than any other south African snake. Distinguishing features are its keeled dorsal scales, exceptionally large eyes and short stubby head. Boomslangs do not drop from trees onto anyone passing underneath, and strike. Their jaws can open as wide as 170 degrees. They have superior vision.

TWIG, VINE or BIRD SNAKE - Voëlslang (helotornis capensis)

Length: 1.0 - 1.6m - Diurnal

The Twig, Vine or Bird snake has a pale blue-green upper head heavily speckled with dark brown, black and sometimes pink. A wide pinkish-white, black-speckled band runs along upper lip from snout to back of head passing across lower half of eye. A dark oblique band radiates from each eye to upper lip. Chin and throat are white, speckled with black. Tongue is bright yellow to orange-red and black-tipped. Unusual keyhole-shaped pupil with eye in very forward position giving binocular vision - far keener than other snakes, even recognising stationary prey at great distances.