Javan Spitting Cobra
Naja sputatrix
A dark, glossy spitting cobra endemic to Java, Bali, and nearby Indonesian islands, closely related to the equatorial spitting cobra.
- Venomous?
- Venomous
- Adult length
- 1.1-1.5 m (3.6-5 ft)
- Range
- Indonesia (Java, Bali, and the Lesser Sunda Islands)
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Overview
The Javan spitting cobra is restricted to Java, Bali, and parts of the Lesser Sunda Islands of Indonesia, where it is one of the more commonly encountered venomous snakes in agricultural and populated lowland areas. It was formerly grouped with the equatorial spitting cobra before taxonomic work separated the two based on range and morphology.
It is a venomous elapid capable of spitting venom defensively and is considered medically significant in Indonesia given its abundance near rice paddies and villages.
How to identify it
- Adults typically 1.1-1.5 m; moderately robust cobra.
- Usually dark brown, gray, or black dorsally, sometimes with a paler throat or faint banding in juveniles.
- Smooth scales, round pupils, capable of spreading a rounded hood.
- Distinguished from the equatorial spitting cobra mainly by its restricted range on Java, Bali, and nearby islands.
Habitat & range
Inhabits lowland agricultural land, rice paddies, forest edge, and areas near human habitation across Java, Bali, and the Lesser Sunda Islands, often sheltering in irrigation channels, rock piles, or under debris.
Behavior, diet & reproduction
Primarily nocturnal, hunting rodents, amphibians, and other small vertebrates after dark. Defends itself by rearing up, spreading its hood, and spitting venom toward the eyes of an intruder. It is oviparous, with clutches of around 10-20 eggs.
Frequently asked questions
Is the Javan spitting cobra venomous?
Yes, it is a venomous elapid and one of medical significance on Java and Bali.
Where is the Javan spitting cobra found?
It is restricted to Java, Bali, and parts of the Lesser Sunda Islands in Indonesia.
How is it different from the equatorial spitting cobra?
The two species were once combined; they are now distinguished primarily by geographic range, with the Javan spitting cobra confined to Java, Bali, and nearby islands.
How big does it get?
Adults typically reach 1.1-1.5 m (3.6-5 ft).
Javan Spitting Cobra guides
In-depth guides for identifying and understanding Javan Spitting Cobra.
