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THE NATAL HOCK SNAKE, OR PORT NATAL PYTHON. 



Another species of Indian Rock Snake, called by the natives Ular Sawa [Hi/psirldna 

 aer), is tolerably common, and in its habits resembles the preceding species. It often attains 

 to a very considerable size, and is said when fuU-grown to be about thirty feet in length. This 

 terrible Snake has been linown to kill mankind, crushing the body in its numerous folds until 

 nearly every bone was broken. In one such instance, the man had been caiight by the right 

 wrist, as was seen by the marks of the Serpent' s teeth. 



NATAL ROCK SNAKE. — Hortatia natalenais, (One-eighth natoral size.) 



• The handsome Natal Rock Snake, or Port Natal Python, as it is sometimes called, 

 now comes under our notice. It is a fine, handsome species, sometimes attaining a gi'eat length, 

 and being most beautifully colored. During life and when in full health and in the enjoyment 

 of liberty, this, in common with many other Snakes, has a beautiful rich bloom upon its scales, 

 not unlike the purple bloom of a plum or grape. Should, however, the Snake be in ill health, 

 this bloom fades away, and in consequence, we seldom if ever see it on the scales of the 

 Serpents which are kept in glass cases. 



The dimensions of this reptile are often very great. Dr. A. Smith has seen a specimen 

 measuring twenty-five feet in length, exclusive of a portion of the tail which was missing. 

 Flat skins of this creature are, however, very deceptive, and cannot be relied upon, as they 

 stretch almost as readily as India rubber, and during the process of drying are often extended 

 several feet beyond the length wliich they occupied while surrounding the body of their 

 quondam owner. 



Tlie teeth of this Serpent ai-e tolerably large, but not venomotis, and although of no 

 insignificant size, are really of small dimensions when compared with the size and weight 



