120 THE NATAL ROCK SNAKE, OR PORT NATAL PYTHON. 
Another species of Indian Rock Snake, called by the natives Ular Savva (Hyp sir lima 
aer), is tolerably common, and in its habits resembles the preceding species. It often attains 
to a very considerable size, and is said when fnll-grown to be about thirty feet in length. This 
terrible Snake has been known to kill mankind, crushing the body in its numerous folds until 
nearly every bone was broken. In one such instance, the man had been caught by the right 
wrist, as was seen by the marks of the Serpent’s teeth. 
NATAL ROCK SNAKE . — Hortatia natalensis. (One-eighth natural 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 great 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 which they occupied while surrounding the body of their 
quondam owner. 
The teeth of this Serpent are tolerably large, but not venomous, and although of no 
insignificant size, are really of small dimensions when compared with the size and weight 
