One of the most striking and dangerous snakes in southern Africa, known for both its beauty and potent venom. Found mainly in South Africa, Namibia, and parts of Botswana, this cobra is highly adaptable, living in deserts, scrublands, savannas, and even farmlands and urban edges. Unlike some of its cobra cousins, the Cape cobra doesn’t spit venom—but don’t let that fool you. It’s considered one of Africa’s most venomous snakes, with a powerful neurotoxic bite that can be fatal if untreated. Despite its fearsome reputation, the Cape cobra is shy and prefers to avoid confrontation, often slithering away when it senses vibrations from an approaching human.

One of the most fascinating things about the Cape cobra is its color. Unlike most snakes that have a single standard look, this species comes in a wide variety of shades. Depending on its location, it can be golden yellow, reddish-brown, dark brown, or even nearly black. This has earned it the nickname “geelslang” (Afrikaans for “yellow snake”), though not all of them are yellow. Its smooth, glossy scales and elegant hood make it a visually impressive snake when it rears up in defense.

The Cape cobra is a versatile and skilled hunter. It feeds on a wide range of prey, including rodents, birds, lizards, and even other snakes. It’s an excellent climber and will often raid bird nests or search for food in trees and shrubs, as well as in burrows on the ground. This adaptability makes it a successful survivor across a variety of landscapes. During the hotter parts of the day, it may take shelter under rocks, in abandoned termite mounds, or in shaded vegetation, only becoming more active in the early morning or late afternoon.

Distribution

Country

Population est.

Status

Year

Comments

Botswana

2019

Lesotho

2019

Presence Uncertain

Namibia

2019

South Africa

2019