West African Brown Spitting Cobra
Naja katiensis
A small brown spitting cobra of the West African Sahel, notable for having a proportionally high venom toxicity for its size.
- Venomous?
- Venomous
- Adult length
- 0.7-1 m (2.3-3.3 ft)
- Range
- West Africa (Sahel region: Mali, Senegal, Burkina Faso, Nigeria, Ghana)
Found a snake like this?
Identify any snake from a photo, free.
Overview
The West African brown spitting cobra inhabits the semi-arid Sahel belt of West Africa, spanning countries such as Mali, Senegal, Burkina Faso, Nigeria, and Ghana. Despite its relatively small size compared to other African cobras, it is noted for a comparatively potent venom.
It is a venomous elapid capable of spitting venom defensively and is regarded as medically significant within its range, particularly given its tendency to occur near rural settlements.
How to identify it
- Adults typically 0.7-1 m; among the smallest of the African spitting cobras.
- Coloration uniformly brown to reddish-brown, with a paler belly.
- Smooth scales, round pupils, forms a narrow to moderate hood when displayed.
- Distinguished from other West African cobras by its small size and uniform brown coloration.
Habitat & range
Found in dry savanna, Sahelian scrubland, and semi-desert habitats across Mali, Senegal, Burkina Faso, Nigeria, and Ghana, often sheltering in termite mounds, rodent burrows, or under rocks.
Behavior, diet & reproduction
Primarily nocturnal, becoming active after dusk to hunt small vertebrates including rodents and amphibians. Defends itself by spreading a hood and spitting venom toward a threat's eyes. It is oviparous, laying relatively small clutches of eggs.
Frequently asked questions
Is the West African brown spitting cobra venomous?
Yes, it is a venomous elapid, and its venom is considered comparatively potent for its small size.
Where does it live?
In the Sahel region of West Africa, including Mali, Senegal, Burkina Faso, Nigeria, and Ghana.
How big does it get?
It is a small cobra, typically reaching 0.7-1 m (2.3-3.3 ft).
How does it defend itself?
It rears up, spreads its hood, and can spit venom accurately toward the eyes of a threat.
West African Brown Spitting Cobra guides
In-depth guides for identifying and understanding West African Brown Spitting Cobra.
