The South African cobra, one of Africa's most dangerous snakes with deadly venom, can devour its prey in just minutes.
A South African cobra swallows its prey in minutes. Photo: Karsten Vollmer
Tourist Karsten Vollmer filmed a South African cobra's meal while visiting Addo Elephant National Park, Latest Sightings reported on April 28. "We were driving towards Hapoordam looking for elephants when my wife spotted a very strange-looking snake on the road. I turned the car around and, to my surprise, it was a South African cobra. It had another snake in its mouth and was swallowing it," he recounted.
"We were amazed by the cobra's strength and agility as it swallowed the snake. We also noticed the cobra was quite agitated by our arrival; it quickly disappeared into the bushes after finishing its meal," Vollmer added.
The predator hides in the bushes after eating. Photo: Karsten Vollmer
The South African cobra ( Naja nivea ), also known as the golden cobra, is famous for its deadly venom and is considered one of the most dangerous snakes in Africa. They are quite aggressive and will raise their bodies and flare their necks when threatened.
The venom of the South African cobra is very potent, and this animal causes many fatalities each year. Despite this, they play an important role in their ecosystem. They feed on a wide variety of prey, including rodents, birds, and other snakes.
Interestingly, the South African cobra has a particular fondness for other snakes and will readily prey on them, including venomous snakes like Bitis arietans – a species belonging to the viper family. South African cobras frequently engage in battles with other snakes, often resulting in the opponent's death. Experts do not fully understand the reasons for this behavior, but it is likely a way to reduce competition for resources.
Thu Thao (According to Latest Sightings )
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