Afrotyphlops – African blind snakes

These snakes are small, burrowing, and fossorial—meaning they live most of their lives underground. As their name suggests, they have reduced or vestigial eyes, covered by scales, which makes them virtually blind. But in their dark, subterranean world, sight isn’t very useful—instead, they rely on touch, chemical cues, and vibrations to navigate and hunt.

Afrotyphlops species are generally slender, smooth, and shiny, with cylindrical, worm-like bodies and short, blunt tails. They vary in size, but most are quite small, often measuring 15 to 30 cm (6 to 12 inches) in length. Their coloration tends to be uniform—usually shades of brown, gray, black, or pinkish—which helps them blend in with soil. Because of their appearance, they are frequently mistaken for earthworms by both predators and people.

One of the most interesting things about these snakes is their specialized diet. Afrotyphlops species primarily feed on ants and termites, particularly the larvae and pupae. They invade nests and use their small but strong skulls to push through tunnels, gulping down soft-bodied prey with rapid, repeated movements.

Though they spend most of their time underground, Afrotyphlops snakes sometimes surface during heavy rains, when the soil becomes saturated, or when disturbed by digging. If handled, they are completely harmless—non-venomous and non-aggressive—though they may try to burrow into your hand or emit a musky odor as a mild defense.

Reproduction among Afrotyphlops species is typically oviparous, meaning they lay eggs in hidden underground spots. The young snakes are born fully formed and independent, ready to burrow and hunt from the moment they hatch.

Despite their obscurity, Afrotyphlops snakes are important members of the ecosystem. By feeding on ants and termites, they help regulate insect populations. They also serve as prey for birds, mammals, and other reptiles, forming a quiet but essential part of the food web.