Nocturnal predation by a boomslang

Boomslang (Dispholidus typus) are large-bodied diurnal snakes that mainly feed on lizards, particularly chameleons (Branch 1998, Maritz & Maritz 2020), and fledgling birds (Covas 2002, Smith et al. 2019, Maritz & Maritz 2020). They are largely arboreal but come to the ground to cross open spaces (Branch 1998, Broadley 1983). Boomslang have a wide sub-Saharan distribution that extends from South Africa, northwards to east, central, and west Africa (Broadley 1983), and can be found in a wide range of habitats that include forests, scrublands, and savanna (Bates et al. 2014). Additionally, recent studies have provided insights into diet, niche use and ontogenetic shifts in colouration (Maritz & Maritz 2020, Smith et al. 2019). Here we add to this body of growing literature by documenting nocturnal predation by an individual Boomslang on a Pygmy Falcon (Polihierax semitorquatus) nestling under natural light conditions.