Description:
Scientific name: Mehelya crossi
Life span: 15-20 years
Sub-Saharan Africa is home to the colubrid snake species known as African file snakes. The term “African file snake” refers to the shape of the snake’s long, slender body, which is tapered at both ends and gives it the appearance of a “file.” They usually have black patterns and are light brown or olive in hue.
Native Region/Habitat
African File Snakes are native to South Africa where they are found in dense forest. In the wild they are found hiding under logs, rocks, and in hol African file snakes are found in South Africa’s deep forests, where they are native. They can be found hidden in the wild behind logs, rocks, and holes.
Behavior:
They are active at night on the ground, where they eat venomous snakes as well as other snakes like frogs and lizards. Gonionotophis members are all egg-layers who lay tiny clutches of big eggs. This species is calm and won’t bite, but it can be restless when handled, so be prepared for them to urinate when you catch one.
Care As a pet/In captivity:
Diet: Strict carnivores, African File Snakes. They prey on rodents, frogs, lizards, and snakes in the wild. They can easily switch to a rodent-only diet while in captivity. They can consume live or frozen prey. Newborn pinky mice will be given to babies first. An adult will eat little to medium rats. When feeding frozen prey, make sure it has fully thawed. Make sure to watch the feeding process when feeding live prey to avoid the prey biting the snake.
Size: Because African File Snakes live on the ground, the surroundings in their cage should also reflect this. A cage for an adult must be at least 36″ long, 18″ deep, and 12″ high, though many keepers prefer a bigger cage. 10-gallon tanks can be used to raise babies.
Substrate: Peat moss or coconut fiber make ideal substrates because they meet humidity requirements. These surfaces retain moisture and are simple to maintain. A thinner substrate of 2 to 4 inches is suitable because this species typically does not burrow.
Temperature: An area that is 80°–85°F must be used for basking by African file snakes. The tank’s cool end can reach temperatures of 65° to 70°F. With this species, a proper temperature is crucial. An African file snake will rapidly acquire respiratory infections if it is exposed to cold temperatures for a lengthy period of time. Above 85 degrees Fahrenheit can easily induce discomfort and regurgitation.
Humidity: A minimum of 70% humidity is required.
Watering: daily supply of clean water for drinking. This species occasionally immerses its entire body in water. Give the snake access to a dish of water big enough for its entire body to be submerged.
Lighting:
This species is nocturnal, thus it only needs one light bulb. This heat lamp also produces UVA radiation. The species does not currently appear to require UVB light, despite some keepers’ preference.
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