Page:Natural History, Reptiles.djvu/124

116 it is the reptile which is called das Adder by the Boors, and which is so much dreaded from its reputed venomous qualities.

The specimen from which Dr. Smith’s description was taken was no more than two feet eight inches in length; but specimens occur which have attained a size nearly double of this. The ground-colour is yellow, variously banded, blotched, and spotted with brown, so as to produce a rich and beautiful effect.

The enterprising zoologist who discovered this reptile thus describes its manners:—“It is usually met with in rocky precipices, or on low stony hills, and, when surprised, seeks concealment in