مسألة: الجزء السادس عشر
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مسألة: الجزء السادس عشر
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spitting cobra

MOZAMBIQUE SPITTING COBRA or M'FEZI
(Naja mossambica) DANGEROUS
This is probably the most dangerous snake second to the Mamba. When confronted this snake can rear up two thirds of its body and can spit its venom with quick moving accuracy. The venom is ejected from two small holes near the tip of the teeth and is usually aimed at the eyes. The effect is instantaneous causing intense smarting and inflammation and if not washed out with milk or water will cause permanent blindness.The colour varies between olive-grey, tawny brown or grey with the scales in between a black colour. The belly is usually a lighter yellow colour. Adults average a length of 1 and 1.5 metres. The eggs average 10 to 22 in number, hatchlings measure 230-250mm.The distribution includes Natal, Low veld south-eastern Tanzania and Pemba Island and west to southern Angola and northern Namibia.
This snake is a nervous and highly strung snake. When confronted at close quarters this snake can rear up to as much as two-thirds of its length, spread its long narrow hood and will readily "spit" in defense, usually from a reared-up position. By doing this the venom can be ejected at a distance of 2-3 metres (5½ - 8¼ feet), with remarkable accuracy. The spitting cobra does not often actually bite despite its aggressive behaviour, and also shares the same habit of feigning death to avoid further molestation.The average length of adults is between 900mm - 1,050mm (2½-3 feet), but largest specimen actually measured was a male 1,442mm (4 feet) long. (Trelawney, Zimbabwe)
Behaviour
This snake is a nervous and highly strung snake. When confronted at close quarters this snake can rear up to as much as two-thirds of its length, spread its long narrow hood and will readily "spit" in defense, usually from a reared-up position. By doing this the venom can be ejected at a distance of 2-3 metres (5½ - 8¼ feet), with remarkable accuracy. The spitting cobra does not often actually bite despite its aggressive behaviour, and also shares the same habit of feigning death to avoid further molestation.The average length of adults is between 900mm - 1,050mm (2½-3 feet), but largest specimen actually measured was a male 1,442mm (4 feet) long. (Trelawney, Zimbabwe)
Venom
It is considered one of the most dangerous snakes in Africa, second only to the Mamba. Like the Rinkhals, it can spit its venom. Its bite causes severe local tissue destruction (similar to that of the puff adder). Venom to the eyes can also cause impaired vision or blindness.
© African Reptiles & Venom 2001-2007
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