Least Concern Reptiles

Mozambique Spitting Cobra

Naja mossambica

Mozambique Spitting Cobra spits venom and hunts small prey in African savannas.

Scientific name	Naja mossambica
Swahili name	Mamba wa mto
Conservation status	Least Concern
Class	Reptilia
Order	Squamata
Family	Elapidae
Size	Males: average body length about 1.2 meters, maximum up to 1.6 meters; females: slightly smaller, averaging about 1.0–1.2 meters

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How to identify

Body color is variable, typically brown, gray, or yellowish-brown; head broad with the characteristic cobra neck that can expand into a 'spectacle' shape; capable of accurately spitting venom into the eyes of threats; body surface has distinct scale patterns; tail relatively short.

Habitat

Occurs in diverse environments including open woodland savanna, shrublands, edges of farmland, valleys, and grasslands.

Diet

Carnivorous, primarily preys on small mammals, frogs, birds, and other snakes.

When it is active

Diurnal, with activity peaks during the day, especially at dawn and dusk.

Where it lives

Mainly distributed in southeastern Africa, including Mozambique, Zimbabwe, South Africa, Zambia, Tanzania, and parts of Kenya.

How to spot it

Maintain a safe distance and avoid provoking the snake. Exercise particular caution when observing spitting behavior; use telephoto lenses for photography.

Photography tips

Use soft morning or evening light for photography, employ telephoto lenses to capture the venom spitting moment, and ensure the background is simple and natural.