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Cape Cobra - Naja nivea
Cape cobras are relatively small, slender
cobras that has a broad head, and smooth but dull scales in 19-21 rows.
There is one preocular and a narrow rostral. colouration is varied, with
some phases common in certain regions. The yellow cobra is butter-coloured
to dirty yellow, sometimes speckled with brown; the brown or speckled
cobra is bright reddish-brown to mahogany, with darker and paler flecks;
and the black cobra is purplish-black. Juveniles are dirty yellow, often
finely speckled in dark brown, and have a black throat band.
General behaviour is active during the day
and early evening, this snake feeds on a wide spectrum of prey, including
other snakes. It will climb low trees and raid sociable weaver colonies.
The cape cobra is highly attracted by rodents. Unfortunately, it is both
nervous and deadly. It spreads a broad hood and confidently disputes its
right of way. It is a non-spitter. The venom is syrupy and as toxic as
the black mamba's. The average venom yield is 120 mg (max. 250 mg); 15-20
mg is fatal in humans. The venom is neurotoxic, and death usually occurs
from the rapid onset of paralysis. Large volumes of antivenom are urgently
required in the treatment of the bite. Bites are not uncommon; this species
is responsible for the majority of fatal snakebites.
The female lays 8-20 large eggs (60
x 30 mm) in a burrow.
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