Snouted Cobra, Naja annulifera

Snouted Cobra, Naja annulifera

This snake was found in the Waterberg Mountain range. They are a relatively widespread South African species which favour bushveld ecosystems. 

This individual has a mixture of markings common in this species, namely banded and plain phase. The banding can be seen near the tail.

The distribution within South Africa is shown in the following map accessed at http://sarca.adu.org.za/ :

This particular individual was found on a warm night. It was foraging and when approached it put on an impressive display. Hissing, striking with an open mouth and also made a mock charge – as soon as the snake was touched with the hook stick it immediately dropped and tried to make it’s escape. 

The venom of this species is potently neurotoxic and any bites should be regarded as a medical emergency.