 
  Blackneck spitting cobra
  A species of Cobras   Scientific name : Naja nigricollis  Genus :   Cobras    
  Blackneck spitting cobra, A species of Cobras 
  Scientific name: Naja nigricollis 
  Genus:  Cobras 
  Content 
 Description General Info
 Photo By Herpimage , used under CC-BY-SA-3.0 /Cropped and compressed from original
  Photo By Herpimage , used under CC-BY-SA-3.0 /Cropped and compressed from original   
 Description
 
  The black-necked spitting cobra (Naja nigricollis) is a species of spitting cobra found mostly in sub-Saharan Africa. They are moderately sized snakes that can grow to a length of 1.2 to 2.2Â m (3.9 to 7.2Â ft) in length. Their coloration and markings can vary considerably. They prey primarily on small rodents. They possess medically significant venom, although the mortality rate for untreated bites on humans is relatively low (~Â 5â10%, in endemic regions under 1%). Like other spittin 
    
 General Info
 
 Lifespan
 10-15 years 
   Diet
 Blackneck spitting cobra predominantly preys on small mammals like rats and mice. Additionally, its diet includes smaller reptiles, birds, and their eggs. It takes advantage of its potent venom to immobilize and digest its prey. 
   Appearance
 Blackneck spitting cobra is a medium-large snake, known for its smooth, shiny scales and hooded appearance. It exhibits dark black coloration, often tinged with a blue or purple sheen, transitioning to a lighter underbelly. It's distinctive by a broadly flattened neck, or 'hood', which it can significantly expand when threatened. It lacks any special protrusions like horns or wings. The snake's size and coloration vary slightly with geographical location but do not significantly differ by age or gender. 
   Behavior
 Blackneck spitting cobra is a solitary and nocturnal species, primarily active during twilight hours. Its behavior is characterized by unique threat displays, particularly hood extension and a 'spitting' action wherein venom is ejected. Unlike many snakes, it does not lay eggs, instead giving birth to live young. Typically non-aggressive, blackneck spitting cobra retreats unless directly threatened, demonstrating adaptation to nocturnal, terrestrial life in a variety of habitats. 
    
 Scientific Classification
 
  Phylum 
  Chordates   Class 
  Reptiles   Order 
  Lizards and snakes   Family 
  Elapids   Genus 
  Cobras   Species 
  Blackneck spitting cobra  
 
  
  
  
  
 

 
  
  
 