Dendroaspis polylepis

Dedicated, robust, fully sealed and lockable venomous-snake terrarium ("hot cage" protocol: double security, locking/shift-box system, sliding front access).

A very large, fast and semi-arboreal species: provide a generous volume, sturdy branches and both high AND low hides. Every opening must be locked and access controlled following a strict venomous-snake protocol (hook, tube, never alone, antivenom/emergency plan on hand). Keeping is governed by regulations on venomous/dangerous animals (permit mandatory in most countries).

Moderate, savanna-type conditions; effective ventilation. Excessively high, stagnant humidity promotes skin and respiratory infections.

Absorbent substrate, kept clean and dry; avoid any waterlogged medium. A slightly more humid zone (humid hide/box) helps with sheds.

Beneficial: a diurnal, heliophilic species. Low to moderate UVB lighting (5-6% tubes / UVI ~2-3 in the basking zone, with shaded areas) is recommended, though not strictly essential if the diet is well supplemented.

Large, heavy and stable water container, clean water renewed regularly; the snake drinks and may soak in it. Handle the bowl only when the animal is secured.

Sub-Saharan Africa (wooded savannas, scrubland, rocky outcrops and the edges of open woodland across East and Southern Africa, from Senegal/Ethiopia down to South Africa).

Carnivore (mammals and birds) — In captivity: appropriately sized rodents (rats), sometimes chicks/birds. In the wild: hyraxes, bushbabies, small mammals and birds.

Active forager; feed appropriately sized thawed prey, with long tongs and following a strict venomous-snake protocol. Adults: spaced-out meals (approx. every 10-14 days) to prevent obesity.

Clutch 6–17 eggs/young. Egg-laying generally in the warm/wet season; incubation of about 80-90 days around 27-29 °C. Breeding to be left to specialized facilities.

• Respiratory infections (often linked to cold/stagnant humidity)
• Stomatitis ("mouth rot") and oral lesions, particularly after stress/trauma against the glass
• Bacterial dermatitis / "scale rot" on overly humid substrate
• External parasites (mites) and internal parasites (nematodes)
• Chronic stress: food refusal, regurgitations, snout (rostrum) injuries against the walls