A recent Getaway magazine article told the wild tale of a Mozambican spitting cobra found lurking in an unexpected place, a toilet bowl in the Kruger National Park!
The 1.2-meter snake had curled up inside the rim, making it tricky to reach but with the help of a special camera and some expert hands, snake catchers carefully removed it and released it safely back into the wild.
It’s a reminder that in the Kruger, the wildlife isn’t just on the open plains and you never know where nature might make an appearance!
Snakes in the Kruger, How Likely Are You to See One?
Snakes thrive in the Kruger, from the grassy plains to the thick riverine forests.
Species like the African rock python, boomslang, black mamba, and the infamous Mozambican spitting cobra (yes, the one recently found hiding in a toilet bowl!) all call this wilderness home.
But before you start worrying, remember that snakes prefer to avoid humans. Most visitors will never see one, and those who do usually spot them slithering away quickly, while the visitor runs in the opposite direction!
If You See a Snake, Stay Calm
Whether it’s crossing the road during a game drive or basking in the sun near your safari lodge, snakes in the Kruger aren’t out to get you. And if you encounter one, this is what you should do:
- Keep Your Distance
Most snakes have no interest in attacking unless they feel threatened. If you see one, admire it from a safe distance and allow it to move away on its own.
- No Sudden Movements
If a snake is close to you, don’t panic. Sudden movements can startle it, increasing the chance of a defensive strike. Simply step back slowly and give it space.
- Never Try to Catch or Kill It
Snakes are protected in the Kruger, and besides, attempting to handle one is how most bites happen. Even non-venomous species can bite in self-defence.
- Alert Your Guide or Lodge Staff
If you find a snake in an unusual place, such as inside a camp or lodge, inform the staff immediately. Trained professionals will safely relocate it.
What If You Get Too Close?
Some snakes, like the Mozambican spitting cobra, have an extra trick up their sleeve, they can spit venom aimed at your eyes. If this happens:
- Immediately rinse your eyes with clean water.
- Do not rub your eyes.
- Get medical attention at the nearest camp or lodge immediately.
What if you get bitten?
While snake bites in the Kruger are extremely rare, they can happen if someone accidentally steps on or provokes a snake, or even climbs into bed with one. If you are bitten:
- Stay as still as possible to slow the spread of venom.
- Do not try to suck out the venom (that’s a Hollywood myth).
- Call for help immediately and keep the affected limb immobilised.
Thankfully, the Kruger has excellent emergency response teams, and anti-venom is available in major hospitals nearby.
Don’t Let the Thoughts of Snakes Worry You, Book Your Kruger Safari Today!
Encountering a snake in the Kruger is part of the adventure and it’s a reminder that you are in one of the last truly wild places on Earth. But don’t let fear hold you back! With experienced guides, stunning landscapes, and the Big Five waiting to be discovered, a safari in the Kruger is an experience like no other.
So why wait? Book your Kruger safari today with Elephant Herd.
