Ashe's Spitting Cobra

Ashe's spitting cobra, described as a distinct species in 2007, is the largest known spitting cobra, with some individuals exceeding 2.5 meters in length. It occurs across parts of East Africa and was previously confused with the black-necked spitting cobra before being recognized separately.

It is a venomous elapid capable of spitting venom defensively and, owing to its large size, is capable of delivering a substantial venom dose, making it one of the more medically significant cobras in the region.

• One of the largest cobras in the world; adults typically 2-2.7 m, with maximum lengths approaching 2.7 m.
• Coloration usually uniform brown or tan, sometimes with a slightly paler underside.
• Smooth scales, round pupils, capable of spreading a broad hood when threatened.
• Distinguished from the black-necked spitting cobra primarily by its notably larger adult size and generally more uniform brown coloration.

Found in savanna, semi-arid scrubland, and rocky terrain across Kenya, Somalia, Ethiopia, Uganda, and Tanzania, often sheltering in termite mounds, rock crevices, or abandoned burrows.

Primarily nocturnal, hunting large prey items including rodents, other snakes, and occasionally larger vertebrates given its size. Defends itself by rearing, spreading its hood, and spitting venom toward a threat's eyes. It is oviparous, with clutches that can be relatively large given the species' size.