Brown phase Cape Cobras are one of the more common colors.
By Dick and Patti Bartlett

The Cape Cobra, Naja nivea, of southern Africa is variable both in color and pattern. Most common colors are various shades of brown, with or without sparse or heavy stippling that may be darker or lighter than the ground color. Beautiful yellow to copper colors, again with or without stippling, are also commonly seen. Juveniles are often more brightly colored than the adults. Average adult size of this very venomous cobra is from 4 to 4 ½ feet. However specimens to and just over 6 feet have been recorded. Hatchlings, 6 to 20 per clutch, are 12 to 16 inches long and are equipped with venom at hatching.

Preferred habitats of this cobra are even more varied than its color. It may be found in desert, semi-desert, grasslands and brushy regions as well as all combinations between. It seeks refuge in the rodent burrows, unused termite mounds, crevices. It is often seen near waterholes as well as streams. It may enter dwellings when attempting to escape the heat of the day.

This is primarily a diurnal, terrestrial snake, but it is well able to climb and often raids the nests of sociable weavers. Besides these birds it eats all manner of small vertebrates, and is known to eat road killed snakes and small mammals. The Cape cobra is not one of the spitting varieties. Because it is often common near dwellings, is dangerously venomous, and tends to stand its ground if surprised, this is considered one of the most dangerous of Africa’s venomous snakes.