Puff adder
Snakes | Namibia
Introduction: The puff adder (Bitis arietans) is the most common adder in southern Africa causing over 70% of serious snakebites in the region. They have long fangs which enable them to inject venom deeply into their victim, with most bites being recorded in the lower leg of humans, usually after they've been trodden on. Fatalities are low, but death usually results from kidney failure and other complications resulting from excessive swelling. It is essential to get medical treatment as soon as possible. The venom is cytotoxic.
They are a heavily built snake that has a large, flattened, triangular head with large nostrils pointing vertically upwards. They emerge at dusk and will lie in cover to ambush their prey. Puff adders move in 'caterpillar' style and often climb into low shrub to bask. They can swim and can often be seen lying on roads at night to take advantage of the extra heat.
Distribution: Throughout Namibia including Etosha National Park, Sossusvlei, Kalahari Desert and the Caprivi Strip extending to Victoria Falls. It is absent from the coastal regions of the Namib Desert.
Diet: Rodents, birds and at times other snakes.
Colouring: The body is yellow-brown to light brown with dark chevrons on the back and bars on the tail. The belly is white or yellow.
Breeding: Large litters consisting of between 20 to 40 young are born in late summer.
Size: Max SVL male 1,090mm, female 1,700mm.
Desert Camp
Competitively priced self catering lodge - very close to the entrance to the Namib Naukluft Park
Desert Homestead
Mid-range accommodation offering some of the best value for money in the area. Horse riding an added activity
Hoodia Desert Lodge
Mid range lodge located only 22km from the Sesriem gate to the Namib-Naukluft Park
Le Mirage Desert Lodge & Spa
Moroccan inspired architecture seems strangely out of place in Namibia. The location, spa and general amenities are good.
Little Kulala
Luxury lodge with guided tour to the dunes using the lodges own private entrance, excellent choice for those looking for a little extra luxury
Namib Naukluft Lodge
Good solid choice, on a beautiful property some distance from the park entrance
Sossusvlei Lodge
Large establishment right next to the Sesriem Campsite, best for keeping driving to a minimum
Weltevrede Rest Camp
A friendly owner run lodge offering excellent value for money. Rooms have private verandah's offering views of sunsets over the Namib Desert dunes & spot-lit waterhole.