29/09/11

This morning I was woken up at 5:30 am because there was a puff adder about 30 meters from camp! Needless to say I was exceedingly pleased to be alerted to the presence of such an awesome animal! Ive been wanting to see one since ive been here but their camoflage and elusivness generally keeps them well hidden despite their wide distribution. They are Africa’s most dangerous snake for this exact reason. They are not the most venomous but they are responsible for more bites than any other venomous snake due to the fact the do not move if approached and when unwary feet step to close two puncture marks often follow. Their venom is not frequently deadly but often results in the loss of a limb for rural farmers who cant afford good footwear or medical care. 

Puff adder getting cosy with my flip flop