Snouted Cobra Fact Sheet

DISTRIBUTION AND DANGER

This snake becomes active at dusk but can often be seen basking near its retreat in the morning. It is found in the hot lowveld areas of Eswatini.

HABITS

It takes refuge in old termite mounds, holes in the ground, rocky outcrops and will often bask in the sun near its retreat. It may be attracted to the smell of live chickens and can become problematic near chicken runs. When threatened, it will rear up and spread a formidable hood but will retreat given the slightest opportunity. It does not spray venom.

DESCRIPTION

This snake is usually 1.2m to 1.8m in length and can become quite robust (fat) when it reaches full maturity. The colour is grey, light to dark brown, very often the colour of light honey. Mature adults have a broad copper band in the throat. Juvenile snakes will have several lighter bands, which become darker with age. The ventral (stomach) scales are light cream or yellow in colour.

BEHAVIOUR

When threatened, it will rear up and spread up its large hood and may hiss a warning. It can be very defensive if threatened and will not hesitate to strike.

BITE SYMPTOMS

The following symptoms may be apparent:

If envenomation has occurred, the symptoms usually manifest within 15 minutes to 6 hours following the bite. Bites are uncommon in Eswatini.

• Initially, there will be burning pain and swelling which may involve more than half the bitten limb.
• Vomiting and continuous gagging is an early systemic symptom.
• Double vision, weakness, agitation and distress.
• Slurred speech, difficulty to open mouth, protrude the tongue and swallow.
• The chest will feel tight and painful, and the victim may find it difficult to breathe.

FIRST-AID AFTER A BITE

• This snakes’ venom is predominantly Neurotoxic and contains Cytotoxins, and a bite should be considered a medical emergency.
• Immediate and urgent medical assistance will be necessary.
• Immediately transport the victim to a medical facility.
• The victim may need assistance to breathe as the lungs may become paralyzed.
• Remember to remain calm.
• Gently wash the bite site with water, nothing else.
• Remove rings, jewellery and other restrictive clothing or shoes.
• Make a note of the time the bite took place.
• Keep the affected limb below the height of the heart.
• If you are close to a medical facility, immobilize the affected limb with a splint and apply a broad pressure bandage from the bite site up the limb. Please note that both these conditions need to be met in order for this method to be effective.
• If far from a medical facility, apply a broadband tourniquet around the highest part of the affected limb.
• Minimize all movement of the patient and limb.

DO NOT:

• Drink or apply any herbal remedy to the bite site.
• Cut the bite site.