Species Detail
Forest Cobra
Snakes

Forest Cobra

Naja melanoleuca

Habitat

Lowland forests and swamps

Range

Central and Western Africa

Adult Size

7.2 ft (2.2 m)

Diet

Toads, fish, and small mammals

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Conservation status:Least Concern

About this species

The largest true cobra species in Africa. It is highly adaptable and comfortable both in water and in trees.

Enrichment & behavioral stimulation

Forest Cobra is aquatic or semi-aquatic โ€” enrichment combines clean water, basking, and foraging variety.

  • Provide a large, clean, well-filtered water area deep enough for full submersion.
  • Add a sturdy dry basking platform under heat and UV.
  • Offer varied water depth with shallow shelves for resting.
  • Drag thawed prey along land decor to create scent trails for tracking.
  • Vary feeding locations between water and land to promote searching.
  • Include a secure dry hide for security out of the water.

Housing & Social Behavior

Solitary

Large, intelligent elapids; strict solitary housing is essential to prevent territory-related violence.

Housing guidance is general and based on species-typical behavior; always verify against current husbandry references and observe individual temperament.