Snakes are some of the most interesting animals in Murchison Falls. They move quietly through the grass. While many people visiting the park fear them, snakes play an important role in keeping the ecosystem healthy.
Murchison Falls is home to many snake species and has the highest number of snakes in Uganda. The park has both venomous and non-venomous snakes. Some of the common types found in the park include:
The African rock python is one of the largest snakes in the park. It can grow up to five meters long. This strong snake can kill large animals like antelopes, warthogs, and even small crocodiles. It is not venomous and uses its body strength to catch prey. After eating, it can take weeks to digest its meal. These pythons are often seen near the River Nile, where they hunt and rest during the heat of the day.
Another snake is the black mamba, one of Africa’s most venomous snakes. If not treated quickly, its bite can kill a person within hours. It has a grayish-black body and is very fast, moving up to 20 km per hour. Though feared, black mambas are shy and try to avoid people. They live in wooded areas and around termite mounds and feed on small mammals and birds.
The puff adder is another venomous snake. It hunts by ambushing its prey rather than chasing it. It hides in dry grass or under leaves and may bite when stepped on. Puff adders feed on rodents, frogs, and small birds.
The egg-eating snake is non-venomous and completely harmless to humans. As the name suggests, it eats bird eggs. It uses its flexible jaws to swallow the eggs whole. This snake is usually found in trees near bird nests.
Snakes are most active during the dry season. They are often seen in the morning, basking on rocks or along trails.
Tourists who see these snakes are advised to keep a safe distance to avoid danger. Still, seeing them can be a special experience.
Seeing snakes in Murchison Falls can be a memorable part of the safari. Many visitors take home unforgettable memories from these encounters.
