Cape Cobra
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| Naja nivea |
The Cape Cobra (Naja nivea) is a moderately sized cobra inhabiting the arid regions of Southern Africa. It averages 4 feet in length but may grow to be 6 feet long. The color varies from location to location, and those from the Kalahari are normally yellow with brown speck uniformly all over the body.
This snake is diurnal which means is is primarily active during the day and early evening. It feeds on a wide spectrum of prey, including other snakes and tends to climb low trees and raid weaver bird colonies. It is also attracted by rodents.
A nervous snake, it produces a powerful neurotoxin that affects the respiratory system. Without proper antivenom treatment the mortality rate is 60% and death normally occurs 2-5 hours after being bitten and is usually as a result of respiratory failure due to the onset of paralysis. The snake is quick to strike and becomes aggressive if cornered but given its space, it is likely to retreat. Its main predators are various species of raptors inhabiting the area and the honey badger, or ratel.
The female lays 8-20 large eggs (60 x 30 mm) in a burrow.
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