Research Alert

1. Scientists have recorded the first-known case of cannibalism in African vine snakes, (Thelotornis spp.) -- a group of venomous snakes which inhabit savannah and forested regions across sub-Saharan Africa.

2. Instances of cannibalism are rarely recorded in African snakes.

3. Few detailed diet studies on these genera exist, which can lead to an underrepresentation of rare, but important, predation events, and further investigation into the cannibalistic tendencies is warranted.

Study and Journal:  "Ophiophagy and cannibalism in African vine snakes "   from  African Journal of Ecology
WCS Co-Author(s):  Acácio Hélio Domingo Chechene , WCS Mozambique Program