Ever feel a shiver crawl up your spine at the thought of snakes? This article will shed light on these misunderstood creatures in Nigeria. We’ll debunk myths (they’re venomous, not poisonous!), introduce you to some of the country’s most potent snakes, and help you recognize them. So, ditch the fear and get ready to learn something new! Are you ready to slither in?
1. Forest Cobra (Naja melanoleuca)
The Forest Cobra (Naja melanoleuca), a diurnal species known for its agility and predatory skills in daylight hours. This cobra features a sleek black body adorned with striking white-edged scales around its mouth, giving it a distinctive appearance. It is renowned for its exceptional climbing ability, capable of scaling trees up to an impressive height of 33 feet. Identification of the Forest Cobra is characterized by its glossy black coloration contrasted with a cream-colored underbelly, coupled with the notable white-edged scales around its mouth.
2. Black-necked Spitting Cobra (Naja nigricollis)
The Black-necked Spitting Cobra, known for its moderate size and preference for small rodents, possesses a unique defensive capability: it can spit venom accurately up to 23 feet, making it a formidable adversary when provoked. Typically measuring between 3.9 to 7.2 feet in length, this cobra displays a dark body adorned with light bands and spots, aiding in its recognition in its natural habitat.
3. Egyptian Cobra (Naja haje)
The Egyptian Cobra stands out with its large, hood-capable head and robust cylindrical body, designed for a diet that includes toads, small mammals, and birds. Its sleek body is typically solid-colored in shades of black or brown, complemented by a moderately broad snout. A key identifying feature of the Egyptian Cobra is its ability to expand a distinct hood when threatened, a characteristic not shared by all cobra species.
4. Spotted Night Adder (Causus maculatus)
Spotted Night Adder is a compact and robust snake known for its stout, short-tailed physique. With a moderate-sized head and an obtuse canthus, this species typically grows to a maximum length of approximately 0.75 meters. Identification of the Spotted Night Adder is aided by its small size, distinctive spotted pattern along its back, and notably short, stubby tail.
5. Puff Adder (Bitis arietans)
Puff Adder (Bitis arietans) is a master of camouflage within Nigeria’s grasslands and scrublands. This viper is recognized for its robust body, distinctive slit-like eyes, and measures between 3 to 5 feet in length. Sporting classic viper characteristics, it features a triangular head, narrow neck, and a short tail. Identification of the Puff Adder is facilitated by its broad, triangular head and a pattern of dark, chevron-shaped markings along its back, making it well-adapted to blend into its natural environment.
6. African Bush Viper (Atheris squamigera)
African Bush Viper (Atheris squamigera) is a nocturnal ambush predator known for its striking appearance and unique hunting habits. This viper emerges at night to hunt, often from upside-down perches, utilizing its broad, flat head and impressive mouth gape to capture prey. Females of this species, typically larger, can reach lengths of up to 24 inches.
Identification of the African Bush Viper is facilitated by its distinct triangular head, large mouth, and remarkable coloration. It often displays shades of green and features dorsal scales that create a rough, keeled texture, adding to its camouflage in its natural habitat.
7. Boomslang (Dispholidus typus)
The Boomslang (Dispholidus typus) is a slender and graceful snake characterized by its distinctive blunt head and captivating large eyes. These serpents can grow up to 2 meters in length, and their mesmerizing gaze is a hallmark of their species. Identification of the Boomslang is facilitated by its slender, elongated body, prominent large eyes facing forward, and a distinct, broad head, making it a unique and recognizable species in its habitat.
Bottom Line
Even though these seven snakes pack a powerful punch, let’s move beyond fear and appreciate their role in the Nigerian ecosystem. By understanding their behavior and habitat, we can safely coexist with these fascinating reptiles.
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