rolls into a ball when disturbed; fairly common, nocturnal, rarely seen Reptiles Nile crocodile (Crocodylus niloticus) — prevalent in all large river and swamp systems as well as in lakes and lagoons, with large populations in some areas such as the Luangwa River; in Lake Bangweulu they represent a common hazard for fishermen Nile monitor (Varanus niloticus) — one of the largest lizards, growing to length of two metres, common throughout Zambia; a good swimmer, is often found by rivers and swamps Savannah monitor (Varanus albigularis) - shy because of burrowing habits, common in savana and grassland Chameleon — common but not easily seen due to its camouflage Snakes Southern African Python (Python natalensis) — the largest snake in Southern Africa, non-venomous, common in most rural areas Black mamba (Dendroaspis polylepis) — a large venomous fast-moving snake, common in most rural areas Black-necked spitting cobra (Naja nigricollis) - quite common, sprays venom when cornered Boomslang (Dispholidus typus) — a common green tree snake, venomous but timid Puff adder (Bitis arietans) — common venomous snake thought to be responsible for most bites of humans because it is well camouflaged and remains motionless when approached, and will bite when unwittingly stepped on Gaboon viper (Bitis gabonica) — the largest viper and one of the most intricately patterned, venomous, found only in woodland savanna and forests in the north of the country, rare Birds Molluscs See also List of national parks of Zambia Acapoeta tanganicae National parks References General Wildlife Authority of Zambia Camerapix: Spectrum Guide to Zambia, Camerapix International Publishing, Nairobi, 1996. Lower Zambezi National Park Website South Luangwa National Park Website Lower Zambezi Information Resource Biota of Zambia Zambia