48o THE SNAKES OF SOUTH AFRICA. 



Permanganate of potash, if injected in solution direct into a vein, is 

 attended with grave danger. 



The Bird Snake {Theltornis) is oviparous. 



The Cape Wolf Snake {Lycophidium capense) is oviparous. One laid 

 a batch of eggs in the Port Elizabeth Museum on 8th December, 1909. 



The popular belief is untrue that snakes will not pass under geranium 

 bushes. I have often seen them do so. A Puff Adder was actually 

 killed lying asleep under a large geranium bush. 



When Mole Snakes shed their skin it comes off in pieces, not in one 

 whole piece. This is owing to their small heads and comparatively large 

 bodies. 



All snakes can swim, and are fond of water. Many tra\'cl long distances 

 on rivers, drifting down with the current. 



Most species of South African snakes retire to their retreats when dark- 

 ness sets in. 



The Adders are exceptions. They are frequently encountered abroad 

 at night. 



