Help with ID please

[hercules]

Yesterday this little girl/guy came sailing into my house. About 20cm long. My first thought was "egg eater: but I'm not sure. Please could you help? It hisses when disturbed and "puffs" itself up but hasn't struck - so I can't say what colour its mouth is... Gorgeous though! I would love to keep it (and I know that I would need a permit) but I think that snakes are probably happiest where they belong - and as there is a reserve close by, that's what I'll do Definitely need a positive ID before I handle it though... Thanks!

[Eyelash]

Hi H, it's a juvenile Mole snake. 100% harmless and pretty common.

Regards,
Louis.

[Ruan Stander]

That's a juvenile mole snake- Pseudaspis cana.
It's also harmless, though adults can inflict painful bites.

[hercules]

Hi H, it's a juvenile Mole snake. 100% harmless and pretty common.

Regards,
Louis.

Haha!! I would never have guessed - when do they take on the adult colouration? (I told you that I was no expert!)

Thank you so much

[hercules]

That's a juvenile mole snake- Pseudaspis cana.
It's also harmless, though adults can inflict painful bites.

Thanks!! Much appreciated - and there are lots of adults around...