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Dipsadoboa flavida, commonly known as the cross-barred tree snake, is a small, non-venomous (though mildly rear-fanged) arboreal snake. Found across East and Southern Africa, it is primarily a nocturnal climber that inhabits lowland and evergreen forests, often near water or in dense vegetation Game Reserve 🐍

Speke’s hinge-back tortoise (Kinixys spekii) in Kizigo Game Reserve, Tanzania

Tanzania hosts several hinge-back tortoise species from the genus Kinixys, primarily the widespread Bell’s Hinged Tortoise (Kinixys belliana), known for its shell hinge, and possibly Speke’s Hinge-back Tortoise (Kinixys spekii), often found in savanna areas, though exact species distribution is complex due to ongoing taxonomy, with Kinixys erosa (Forest Hingeback) also present in suitable habitats across sub-Saharan Africa

Kinixys Species in Tanzania

Kinixys belliana (Bell’s Hinged Tortoise): Historically considered very common in Tanzania and across much of sub-Saharan Africa, though recent revisions might limit its range to central Africa, with populations in Tanzania potentially being closely related or distinct subspecies
Kinixys spekii (Speke’s Hinge-back Tortoise)
Found in savanna habitats and ranges into southern Africa, it’s a likely candidate for Tanzanian presence
Kinixys erosa (Forest Hingeback Tortoise)
While generally associated with rainforests, its presence in East Africa means it could occur in wetter, forested parts of Tanzania
Identifying Features

Hinge: All Kinixys have a distinctive hinge on their carapace (shell) that allows them to close off the rear part of their shell for protection.
Claws: Bell’s hinge-backs often have five claws on their front feet, unlike some related species
Habitat:

These tortoises prefer tropical and subtropical savannas, grasslands, and woodland areas, with different species favoring slightly different environments, from open plains to forested regions

My quest today morning 24/12/2025 at Kizigo Game Reserve. Bird/Vine/Twig snake, rear fanged with haemotoxic venom

World Snake Day is a global awareness day dedicated to snakes. It aims to highlight their beauty, diversity, and ecological value
The origins of World Snake Day are not pinned to a specific event or individual, but it emerged in the early 2000s as conservationists and educators sought a way to shed light on the diversity and importance of snakes. Celebrated every year on July 16, it has since grown into an internationally recognized observance promoted by zoos, nature reserves, wildlife organizations, and educators. These groups use the day to spotlight the rich diversity of snake species—over 4,000 globally—and the increasing threats they face due to habitat destruction, poaching, and negative public perception.
Snakes have been part of human culture and mythology for thousands of years. In ancient civilizations, snakes were symbols of rebirth, healing, and protection. But they have also been cast in negative roles—especially in Western culture—where fear and superstition overshadow scientific understanding. World Snake Day was created to challenge these outdated beliefs and to foster a more respectful and informed relationship between humans and snakes. Conservation campaigns tied to this day often focus on endangered species, venom research, and the ecological balance snakes provide.

This year’s theme—“Respect, Don’t Fear: Protecting Nature’s Silent Guardians”—focuses on compassion and conservation

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