Fauna
Reptile

Egyptian Cobra

Naja haje

Also known as Asp, Cleopatra's Asp, African Brown Cobra

Egyptian cobras are large, adaptable elapids steeped in regional lore, famously revered in antiquity as symbols of pharaonic sovereignty. Primarily nocturnal or crepuscular foragers, they patrol dry savannas, agricultural borders, and rocky hillsides in pursuit of amphibians, rodents, and other reptiles. When threatened, they rear up their front third, spread a broad, unpatterned hood, and emit a deep defensive hiss before delivering rapid strikes.

VenomousReptileNocturnal
Egyptian Cobra reference1 / 3
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Least ConcernConservation statusIUCN Red List categoriesLCNTVUENCREWEXLeast ConcernRed List categories, explained →
Key facts
Diet & preyToads, Rodents, Lizards
Predators
  • Secretarybird
  • Honey Badger
  • Birds of Prey
ThreatsDirect persecution by humans, vehicle collisions, and habitat fragmentation
HabitatsArid to semi-arid savannas, scrublands, agricultural fields, and oases
Life span15–25 years
Classification
  1. FamilyElapidae
  2. SpeciesNaja haje
Range & activity
Range data is not available yet.
Safe observation
Interaction riskVery high
  1. Low
  2. Moderate
  3. High
  4. Very high
Why interaction risk is very high
Bite delivers life-threatening neurotoxic venom; maintain several meters of distance and do not corner.
Why it is dangerous
Possesses potent neurotoxins and cytotoxins that induce rapid flaccid paralysis, respiratory collapse, and tissue necrosis.
How to recognize a risky encounter
Identified by a broad head, large dark eyes with teardrop markings, and uniform brown, black, or banded coloration.
What to do
Never attempt to capture or relocate; stand still until the snake retreats, then move away calmly.
Responsible observation
  • Keep Distance: Back away slowly if the snake rears up and spreads its hood.
  • Use Flashlights: Scan pathways after dark where cobras hunt active amphibians.
  • Clear Pathways: Never block an escape route, as cornered snakes strike swiftly.
Related species
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