[2] Range by UN subregion:[2] Adults average 60–90 cm (2.0–3.0 ft) in total length, with 17–21 rows of dorsal scales.

The upper side is pale orange to salmon pink in color with 24–48 black or dark-brown cross bars or blotches along the back and tail; the underside is pale yellow to orangish pink along the throat, paler along the rest of the body.

It has a distinct head and large orange eyes with vertical pupils, and a narrow body with long tail.

Telescopus semiannulatus is found in both dry and humid subtropical and tropical habitats, from rocky desert, scrub and savanna, to lowland forest.

Its diet is largely lizards, especially geckos, but also small rodents and fledgling birds and bats.