A special treat – a cobra catch!

/
/
A special treat – a cobra catch!

It all happened on a JENMAN African Safari, “World in one Country” Tour from Kruger National Park to Cape Town. On our second day, just coming back from our night game drive in the Kruger National Park, en route to our private lodge bordering the reserve we… Still enthusiastically discussing the sightings we had just encountered we drove with quite some speed towards the waiting dinner. Keeping my eyes mainly trained towards the road in anticipation of the ever-present domestic cattle or worse Kudu or Elephant, a stick in the middle of the road, nearly went by unnoticed, if it had not moved all of a sudden. Not really seeing what it was, I hit the breaks as hard as my passengers comfort allowed and brought the car to a standstill a few meters behind the “Stick”

The car had barely stopped and I was out, running back along the road. And there it was! In the dim red rear light a smallish (40cm) Snake was crossing the road. Upon my approach it tried to make a “run” for it. I neither knew what kind of snake it was, (the mud-covered rear lights 10m away were of no help!) nor did I have any tools or equipment with me to catch the snake. However, having spent more than 30 years catching snakes, I thought: “How difficult can it be to catch this oversized Worm?”

But, was I in for a surprise! The little bugger gave quite a fight, twisting, striking, attacking, and hissing!! After several minutes and with the help of my slip slop I caught the critter. With a pounding heart and some sweat on my forehead I brought the snake back to the vehicle. I think the feeling of my clients where…? “Mixed” to say the least!

I put the snake in my binocular box, and continued the rest of the drive both marvelling at my unexpected catch and wondering what kind of snake it might be. Arriving at the camp I had another quick peek into the box, but beside an angry hiss I could not get much out of the animal. I waited until the morning for better light and dropping temperatures was all I could do. What a surprise when I opened the box the next morning and a kind of stiff Shield-Nosed Cobra (Aspidelaps scutata) looked coldly at me. This was the first time that I saw this most interesting nocturnal, ground-dwelling reptile up close.

Still with time to spare until breakfast and accompanied by 4 brave guests’s, I took my binocular box and camera and left the campsite to find some open space within the bordering private reserve. As soon as I found a suitable spot I released the still cold serpent. It did not take too long for the morning sun to bring back all the vital life signs that make this little snake known to be quite aggressive. But before it spread its hood in typical cobra fashion it displayed another typical trait of this species, playing dead (Why didn’t it do that when I tried to catch it?) After 2 dozens pictures or so, we all enjoyed seeing this little fellow slithering safely into the surrounding undergrowth.

– Guido, Jenman Safaris Guide

We are a leading safari tour operator that provides world-class guided group tours and tailor-made packages throughout Southern Africa, East Africa, and Madagascar, ensuring unique wildlife experiences.

Build Your Trip

With the power to specify your travel dates, the number of travelers in your party, and your preferred destinations, we’ve made it incredibly convenient for our travel consultants to curate the perfect expedition for you.

chameleon in Madagascar

Why We Love Madagascar

From the busy, bustling cities to the tranquil, extraordinary forests. Madagascar touches your soul.” It’s no secret that we love Madagascar, but do you know why? In this article, our team shares their special insight and reasons why this incredible country should be on everybody’s bucket

African Drums

The Cultural Quilt of Africa

A Series of Traditions Africa is a quilted continent of ritual and tradition. With a multitude of rich tribal history, mythology, beliefs and religions, Africa ignites and fuels one’s cultural curiosity. Through our ‘Series of Traditions’, Jenman African Safaris will select and celebrate various countries’

Safaris from Cape Town

Safaris from Cape Town

Experience the ultimate adventure with our extraordinary safaris from Cape Town. Situated at the foot of the majestic Table Mountain, our safari tours offer you the perfect blend of wildlife exploration and awe-inspiring landscapes. Immerse yourself in the untamed beauty of South Africa as we

Grow Africa Hike

Grow Africa Hike

At 9am on an unusually chilly morning of 19 February, 14 slightly sleepy JENMAN staff members, a guide named Todd, a 2-year old toddler, and 17 very energetic children from Rosmead Primary School decided to brave the hike from Constantia Nek to the world famous

Need Help?

Get in touch with our experienced consultants, dedicated to curating your ideal African safari. Let us guide you towards the perfect destination, ensuring your trip is nothing short of extraordinary.