If you are unsure of the identification of a snake you have observed, you can ask an expert for snake identification by uploading a photo to the Snakes of Namibia facebook page.

You can also get help from their amazing album of infographics of the common snake species in Namibia.

The facebook page also has contact details for snake catchers - people who are experienced in catching and removing snakes - throughout the country.

In the case of a snake bite, email "snakebite" to [email protected]. Namibia's snakebite expert - Dr Buys - will respond immediately.

Cape Cobra

Naja nivea

The Cape Cobra is Africa's most venomous cobra and is extremely dangerous.

Adult colouration is extremely variable, ranging from yellow to black. Some individuals are speckled. Juveniles are yellow with a black band which fades and disappears completely in adults.

Venom type: Neurotoxic. Potent neurotoxin (i.e. affecting the body's nervous system causing sweating, drowsiness, slurred speech, droopy eyelids, difficulty swallowing and later difficulty in breathing and even death if not treated early and adequately. Mild to moderate local swelling, discolouration and pain are present.

Ability to spit venom: None.

Range: Southern eastern and central Namibia.They occur throughout Southern Namibia. They are absent from the Windhoek area, however there are records from Usakos, Uis, Karibib and even the Swakop river.

Size: 1.5 - 1.8 m.