The Cape Cobra (Naja nivea), a fascinating venomous snake in its natural habitat (00017138)

Description: The Cape Cobra (Naja nivea), also known as the Yellow Cape Cobra, is a fascinating venomous snake that we encountered on a hard-to-reach mountainside. This species of snake is capable of reaching a length of up to 1.60 meters and has a distinctive head that is barely separated from the body. Its habitat primarily includes dry, rocky areas, sandy banks, and sandy riverbeds. The Cape Cobra is characterized by its impressive range of colors, from yellow to reddish-brown to black. In the crevices of this mountainside, we found both the Yellow Cape Cobra and the Speckled Cape Cobra in their natural habitat. This snake species possesses one of the most potent snake venoms, which has a neurotoxic effect and can lead to respiratory failure. Despite its imposing threat display, a bite from this snake can result in death within minutes. Learn more about the Cape Cobra and its fascinating features in this capture.

Location: Western Cape, Gansbaai Mountains, South Africa

Date of Capture: 09.08.2005