Snakes > Cape Cobra

Cape Cobra / Kaapse Kobra, Geelslang, Kaapse Kapel

Naja nivea

Size Adult snakes reach an average length of 1 m (maximum 1.8m).

Description A large, robustly built snake that is easily recognized if it spreads its hood. Colour is very variable and include the following: plain yellow, plain orange brown, coppery brown, dull brown and dark brown. All these colour variations may be accompanied by darker and lighter flecks and sometimes even patches of different colours. The head is not very distinct from the head and the body scales are smooth giving a polished appearance.

Biology This snake is a generalist that accepts a very wide range of prey, from birds, lizards, other snakes (including puff adders), and rodents to frogs and toads. It is active in the day and night and is thus frequently encountered, especially as it is attracted to the rodents surrounding human habitations. It is an alert snake that quickly becomes aware of any movement in its surroundings. It is a reasonably quick moving snake and rapidly retreats if approached although it will often spread a hood as a warning and also to buy time to choose an escape route. If its escape is foiled, it will maintain its hood and strike in an attempt to chase the danger away. Its venom is a potent neurotoxin and if bitten, a person should be taken to hospital immediately. Failure to treat a bite is likely to result in death.

Distribution The Cape cobra prefers the hot, arid areas of the Western Cape, Northern Cape, Northwest provinces and southern Botswana and Namibia.

Distribution in GCBC Probably occurs throughout the Corridor.

Conservation Status Not listed.

Threats Road deaths and intentional killing by humans are the biggest threat to this species.

Current studies None.