Equatorial Spitting Cobra
Naja sumatrana
A predominantly black or dark-colored spitting cobra found across the Malay Peninsula and the islands of Sumatra and Borneo.
- Venomous?
- Venomous
- Adult length
- 1.2-1.5 m (4-5 ft)
- Range
- Southeast Asia (Malay Peninsula, Sumatra, Borneo)
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Overview
The equatorial spitting cobra occurs throughout much of Sundaland, including the Malay Peninsula, Sumatra, and Borneo, where it is often the most commonly encountered cobra in lowland areas. It was long confused with the closely related Indochinese and Javan spitting cobras before taxonomic revisions separated them.
It is a venomous elapid capable of spitting venom defensively and is of medical significance in the region, as it frequently occurs near agricultural land and human settlements.
How to identify it
- Adults typically 1.2-1.5 m; moderately built cobra.
- Coloration usually uniform glossy black or dark brown, though some individuals show a paler throat.
- Smooth scales, round pupils, forms a rounded hood when threatened.
- Distinguished from the Javan spitting cobra by range (Sumatra, Peninsular Malaysia, Borneo rather than Java) and typically more uniformly dark coloration.
Habitat & range
Inhabits lowland forest, forest edge, agricultural land, and areas near human habitation across the Malay Peninsula, Sumatra, and Borneo, often found near rice paddies, plantations, and drainage canals.
Behavior, diet & reproduction
Primarily nocturnal, though it may be active during the day in cooler, shaded conditions. Defends itself by spreading its hood and spitting venom toward the eyes of a threat. Feeds on rodents, amphibians, and other small vertebrates. It is oviparous, with clutches of around 10-20 eggs.
Frequently asked questions
Is the equatorial spitting cobra venomous?
Yes, it is a venomous elapid and considered medically significant in Southeast Asia.
Where is the equatorial spitting cobra found?
Across Peninsular Malaysia, Sumatra, and Borneo in Southeast Asia.
How is it different from the Javan spitting cobra?
The two were once considered the same species; they are now separated largely by geographic range, with the equatorial spitting cobra occurring on Sumatra, Borneo, and the Malay Peninsula rather than Java.
How big does it get?
Adults typically reach 1.2-1.5 m (4-5 ft).
Equatorial Spitting Cobra guides
In-depth guides for identifying and understanding Equatorial Spitting Cobra.
