| Rinkhals | |
|---|---|
| Scientific classification | |
| Kingdom: | Animalia |
| Phylum: | Chordata |
| Class: | Reptilia |
| Order: | Squamata |
| Suborder: | Serpentes |
| Family: | Elapidae |
| Genus: | Hemachatus Fleming, 1822 |
| Species: | H. haemachatus |
| Binomial name | |
| Hemachatus haemachatus (Bonnaterre, 1790) |
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The Rinkhals also called the Ringhals or Ring-necked Spitting Cobra (Hemachatus haemachatus) is a venomous elapid species found in parts of southern Africa. It is not a true cobra in that it is monotypic and does not belong in the genus Naja, but is closely related and is considered to be one of the true spitting cobras.[1].
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Coloration varies throughout its distribution area but characteristic of the species is that the belly is dark and there are 1-2 light coloured crossbands on the throat.Average length is 90 - 110cm. [1] Some individuals may have a mostly black body while others are striped. Rinkhals scales are distinct from that of true cobras in that they are ridged and keel-like.
Southern Cape province of South Africa, N.E through the Free State, Lesotho, Transkei, Kwazulu Natal,South Africa, Western Swaziland and parts of Gauteng, South Africa. An isolated population is centered around Inyanga on the Zimbabwe / Mozambique border. [1]
The Rinkhals has eclectic tastes. Its main prey is toads,[2] but it also eats small mammals, amphibians, and other reptiles.[3] Like several other snakes, the Rinkhals is also known for its ability to play dead.
The venom of the Rinkhals is neurotoxic and partially cytotoxic. The venom of this species is less viscous than that of other African elapids.[1] It generally aims its venom at the face. If the venom enters the eyes it causes great pain.[3]
Local symptoms of swelling / bruising is reported in about 25% of cases.[1] General symptoms of drowsiness, nausea, vomiting, violent abdominal pain, cramps and vertigo often occur, as does a mild pyrexial reaction.[1][3]
When distressed the Rinkhals spreads its hood, showing its distinctive striped neck. The Rinkhals is a spitting snake, and can spray its venom up to 2.5m. Its spitting mechanism is primitive and it has to rear up and fling its body forward in order to spray its venom. It is also known to fake death by rolling onto its back with its mouth agape.
The Rinkhals generally prefers grassland habitats because it makes them blend in with the surroundings. Rinkhals also may live in swamps around Southern Africa.[3]