Due to the hot conditions, the Great Karoo has a diverse range of reptiles and tortoises.

Species to look out for

Karoo toad

The Karoo Toad (Bufo gariepensis) is a species of toad in the Bufonidae family. This square, thick-set toad is larger-sized than other species in the same genus. But, it's not the size of the Karoo Toad that makes it special. Rather, its the way it moves. We all know toads to hop, but the Karoo Toad walks and runs and can only hop for like other toads for short distances. So, while driving to Nieu Bethesda, keep an eye out for toads walking across the road.

Plain Mountain Adder

The Plain Mountain Adder, also called the hornless adder and the Cape puff adder, is a rare venomous viper species, that is found in only two locations. There is an isolated population of these adders on on the Sneeuberg mountain near Nieu Bethesda.
The Plain Mountain Adder is dull reddish-brown, but like most adders, has faint darker blotches on the back. It hides under rocks during the day but may come out to catch some of the Karoo sun. It feeds on lizards and small rodents. There is no record of a human bite from these adders, but the venom of the plain mountain adder would probably be comparable to those of other small adders.

Source: Johan Marais. What's that Snake.

Snakes

Lizards

Tortoises

Frogs/toads