You are most likely to encounter forest creatures and insects.
We would be worried if you did not.
Without these creatures we would have an unbalanced forest eco-system.
Mosquito (Culicidae)
CLASSIFICATION — IRRITATION OF EPIC PROPORTION
Likelihood of a close encounter — LOW (hahaha)
Only if you are covered in insect repellent 24 hours of the day! Insect repellent supplied by Teniqua is DEET
free and complimentary to use during your stay.
SWAT ON SITE — do not feed, or you will itch for days
Rain Spider (Palystes superciliosus)
CLASSIFICATION — HARMLESS
Likelihood of a close encounter — HIGH
These little guys are just like you, they like to be indoors when it's raining or about to rain. You could kind of
use them as a rain forecaster. THEY ARE HARMLESS, SHY and CHILLED, they do not see you as prey and will not attack, even when provoked.
A handy spider catcher is available in your suite which allows you to catch and release them from a safe distance. Should you happen to send both spider and spider catcher out when releasing, kindly inform reception so we can collect on your behalf.
Vervet Monkey (Chlorocebus pygerythrus)
CLASSIFICATION — PAIN IN THE REAR
Likelihood of a close encounter — HIGH
We classify them as a pain in the rear but in truth we are fond of the troop that call Teniqua their home. We continue our endeavour to monkey proof the suites and try to find a balance that works for all that call this paradise home.
Vervet monkeys can be serious pests that cause damage in areas where their habitat overlaps with agricultural areas, as is the case with the Teniqua Treetops. They are sneaky, opportunistic primates who will do anything to get to food, including breaking and entering. Pack all your food away, the fridge seems to be the best place at the moment.
PLEASE, PLEASE DO NOT FEED THE MONKEYS.
Knysna Turaco (Tauraco corythaix)
CLASSIFICATION — NATURE'S FLYING PICASSO
Likelihood of a close encounter — HIGH
These intelligent birds have learnt that breakfast at the Treetops can be a feast for them as well. While they will provide you with the perfect photo opportunity when tempted with fruit or bread
PLEASE, PLEASE DO NOT FEED THE TURACO.
Scorpion Cape Creeper (Opisthacanthus capensis)
CLASSIFICATION — MILDLY VENOMOUS
Likelihood of a close encounter — LOW
We do not often have these guys in the Treetop Suites, but when we do encounter them, they are enjoying the bath, like you they enjoy a soak with a view. The handy spider catcher, referred to above, works for them too. The sting of this species may cause pain but is not medically important.
Boomslang (Dispholidus typus)
CLASSIFICATION — VERY DANGEROUS
Likelihood of a close encounter — LOW
This snake has never been found inside any of the treetop suites. The Boomslang is largely tree-living but may descend to the ground to bask. In trees it poses no threat to humans as it is extremely reluctant to bite.
If you encounter this snake, please report it to reception so that it can be removed and relocated.
Puff Adder (Bitis arietans)
CLASSIFICATION — VERY DANGEROUS
Likelihood of a close encounter — LOW
This snake has never been found inside any of the treetop suites. It is a heavy-bodied snake that relies on its excellent camouflage and is reluctant to move. It is an ambush hunter that will coil up into a striking position and await its prey.
If you encounter this snake, please report it to reception so that it can be removed and relocated.
Rhombic Night Adder (Causus rhombeatus)
CLASSIFICATION — DANGEROUS
Likelihood of a close encounter — LOW
It can be identified by the distinct dark V-marking on the head. It is generally a docile snake but will hiss aggressively and strike when provoked.
If you encounter this snake, please report it to reception so that it can be removed and relocated.
Western Natal Green Snake (Philothamnus occidentalis)
CLASSIFICATION — HARMLESS
Likelihood of a close encounter — LOW
This beautifully marked, bright green snake has on occasion been spotted in the Treetop Suites. It hunts for geckos and frogs. This snake climbs well but is usually found on the ground, especially along the banks of well-shaded rivers and streams but is completely harmless.
If you encounter this snake, please report it to reception so that it can be removed and relocated.
We refer to them as Sir/Madam Puff Adder
I personally have the utmost respect for this snake, they are excellent hunters and remain calm at all times which is scary.
This snake is widespread over most of South Africa. This is a very heavy-bodied snake that is exceptionally strong and makes use of its beautiful camouflage and toxic venom to hunt.
While this guy is reluctant to move and has real patience it is not to be messed with.
It will hiss and puff if provoked, so it is best just to leave the guy alone and let him continue his happy existence.
Trust me he is more scared of us humans and has more reason to be scared of humans.
From some of the research I have done, this snake is one of the only snakes with the ability to use chemical camouflage and is one of the fastest back strikers.
At Teniqua Treetops we have been fortunate to spot a few of these guys, they are well respected and I relocate them to different parts of the farm if they are spotted in communal areas.
Another critter which keeps our forest healthy and thriving.
Our Sustainable Tourism Values
By choosing to stay with us, you're helping protect this forest and its wildlife for generations to come.
Solar
Power
Power
Greywater
Recycling
Recycling
Rainwater
Harvesting
Harvesting
Natural
Cleaning Products
Cleaning Products
It's more than a one night stay!
CONTACT INFORMATION
Sedgefield, Western Cape, South Africa
In the Garden Route, near Knysna
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