WELCOME AT MARBLE HALL REPTILE SANCTUARY

Reptiles in South Africa

South Africa is well known for its extraordinarily diverse and rich reptile fauna. There are currently a total of 151 snakes, 338 lizards, 27 tortoises and one crocodile species described in the region. This adds up to an incredible total of 517 described repitle species occurring in the South African region.

Nile Crocodiles (crocodylus niloticus)

The Nile Crocodile (crocodylus niloticus) is widely spread thoughout South Africa and can be found in rivers and dams across the country.

These ancient species can grow up to 6 meters in length and can weigh as much as a 1000kg or even more. In the wild Wildebeest, Zebras and smaller antelopes are amongst their favourite pray.

Male and female crocodiles reaches sexual maturity when they reach a length of around 10 feet or 3 metres. The female crocodiles lay their eggs in sandy river banks or shores and guard their nests fiercely from any predators. In captivity they can display extremely aggressive behaviour which otherwise is seldom seen in the wild.

Crocodile basking in the sun

Snakes

Of the 2 500 snake species in the world, a third of them can be found in South Africa. Approximately 38 of these species of snakes are regarded as being venomous and should be handled with care, especially if you don't know the species. Eight species have been identified as being extremely or highly venomous and only the most experienced snake handlers should handle these snakes.

The puff adder, a species which is quite common in the Limpopo region is very dangerous and can cause serious injuries or even death. The black mamba is the fastest snake in the world and can also be found in these parts of the country. It is called the black mamba because it's mouth is black on the inside. The Mosambique Spitting Cobra is another venomous snake in this region and can spit accurately up to a distance of 4 metres and usually spits in the eyes of anything that threatens it. This causes extreme pain and can even lead to blindness.

Indemnity

The Reptile Sanctuary will not be hold responsible for any injury, death, loss or damage of personal belongings whilst visiting the premises. All rules and regulations should be strictly adhered to at all times..