Lamprophiids
Lamprophiids
Deserts
ABout Lamprophiids

THIS DIVERSE AND FASCINATING FAMILY OF SNAKES IS FOUND MOSTLY IN SOUTHERN AFRICA AND INCLUDES THE MADAGASCAR GIANT HOGNOSE, WHICH GETS ITS NAME FOR ITS SHORT, SHOVEL-LIKE SNOUT.

This distinguishing facial feature is perfect for digging hidey holes in the hardened earth, arid grasslands and shrublands of their native habitats.

Part of a small and unique group of snakes, the Madagascar giant hognose is a rear-fanged species. With their fangs located at the back of their mouth, these predators can bite without injecting venom into their prey.

Who’s at the Zoo

Madagascar giant hognose

Experience Size, Speed & Venom: Extreme Snakes
Plan Your Visit
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FACTS & STATISTICS
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Average Size
3-4.5 ft
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Native Region
Madagascar
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Eating Habits
Rodents, small birds and reptile eggs
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Conservation Status
Least Concern
CONSERVATION EFFORTS FOR Lamprophiids

What can you do?

Everyone has the power to help save wild things and wild places. That power is your individual voice, your awareness and your actions. So in addition to visiting the Zoo and meeting our animal ambassadors, here are a few simple suggestions that will help save their counterparts in the wild.

  • When you’re out in nature, watch out for our scaly friends. Be mindful when you’re stepping off marked trails and pay close attention to areas where snakes like to hide, like fallen trees and stumps. They’re more afraid of us than we are of them.
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Come see for yourself.

Look no further. Connect with our amazing animals and learn about the wild places they come from.

Where are they at the Zoo?
The lamprophiids are located in the Desert Dome.
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