Ringneck spitting cobra
A species of Hemachatus, Also known as Rinkhals Scientific name : Hemachatus haemachatus Genus : Hemachatus
Ringneck spitting cobra, A species of Hemachatus
Also known as:
Rinkhals
Scientific name: Hemachatus haemachatus
Genus: Hemachatus
Content
Description General Info
Photo By Lee R. Berger , used under CC-BY-SA-2.5 /Cropped and compressed from original 
Description
The rinkhals (Hemachatus haemachatus), also called the ringhals or ring-necked spitting cobra, is a species of venomous elapid found in parts of southern Africa. It is not a true cobra in that it does not belong to the genus Naja, but instead belongs to the monotypic genus Hemachatus. It is closely related to the true cobras.
General Info
Lifespan
10-15 years
Diet
Ringneck spitting cobra primarily feeds on small reptiles, amphibians, and rodents. It is an ambush predator using venom to incapacitate its prey. It also consumes eggs and carrion when available.
Appearance
Ringneck spitting cobra is a medium-sized venomous snake. Its body is cylindrical and covered with smooth scales, allowing agile and swift movements. The main coloration is black with distinct cream or yellow bands, a dramatic pattern that makes it easily identifiable. It is equipped with a pair of hollow fangs used for venom delivery. There are minimal visible differences between genders or age groups.
Behavior
Ringneck spitting cobra is renowned for its formidable spit-and-bite defense strategy against perceived threats. A solitary species, it is primarily nocturnal, spending daylight hours undercover to avoid predators. Highly territorial, it exhibits aggressive reactions when threatened or confronted. Remarkably, ringneck spitting cobra conducts trophallaxis, a survival-related shared feeding behavior, mother and offspring exchanging regurgitated food.
Population
Decreasing
Scientific Classification
Phylum
Chordates Class
Reptiles Order
Lizards and snakes Family
Elapids Genus
Hemachatus Species
Ringneck spitting cobra 
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