Cobras of Morocco
Morocco's most iconic snake
The Egyptian Cobra (Naja haje) is by far the most charismatic snake in the country, and the only member of its family here. It is thought to be a relict of a wetter Morocco, left behind as the climate dried. A top predator, it is among the longest snakes in the country and the largest venomous species in Morocco.
Morocco
Being iconic is exactly what costs it. The cobra is the star of the snake charmers' show, and that trade runs on wild caught animals that die and are replaced as fast as they are lost. Numbers keep falling, and the species is probably at the lowest density it has ever known in Morocco.
Naja hajeEgyptian CobraHow to identify a Cobra in Morocco
Morocco's single Cobra is highly venomous. Keep your distance, this guide is for identification, not to encourage handling.
1 Is it really a Cobra?
COLLAGE: cobra rearing with hood, on whiteThree quick checks
- Rears up and spreads a hood when threatened
- Large, often uniformly black with bronze flanks
- Round pupil, black eyes
What to do if bitten by a Viper or Cobra
A bite from a Viper or Cobra is a medical emergency. Call right away.
- Move away from the snake and stay calm.
- Remove rings, watches and anything tight.
- Keep the bitten limb still, splint it if you can.
- If possible, carry the person for any movement, do not let them walk.
- Get to a hospital as fast as possible: only proper medical treatment works.
- If it is safe, note the time and take a photo. Never try to catch or kill the snake.
Do not cut, suck, apply a tourniquet, ice, alcohol or coffee.
General information based on the WHO, provided for guidance only. It is not medical advice and does not replace professional care. Source: WHO
Cobras of Morocco
Are there cobras in Morocco, and are the charmers' cobras venomous?
Yes. The Egyptian Cobra (Naja haje), also called the North African Cobra, is the only cobra in Morocco. It is taken from the wild and used by snake charmers, a practice that has increased the threat to the species in Morocco. Wild cobras are collected every year, usually mutilated and used until they die. To learn more, see our Egyptian Cobra account.
Where does the cobra live in Morocco?
Mainly south of the Atlas Mountains. The Moroccan population is relatively isolated and shows distinct features, such as the small white spot under the head. Meeting one is unlikely as they tend to avoid people and have become quite rare throughout their range. Want to get a more visual representation of where they occur? Check out the maps on our Egyptian Cobra account.
How can I recognise a cobra?
The clearest sign is the hood: a cobra rears up and spreads its neck when threatened. It is usually large and uniformly black with bronze flanks, with an all-black eye. Our illustrated guide walks you through it.
What should I do if a cobra bites me?
Get to a hospital as fast as you can, stay calm and keep the bitten limb still. Only proper medical treatment works. For the full do's and don'ts, see our What to do if bitten guide.
How big does it get?
In Morocco it usually does not exceed about 1.5 metres, though some large males approach 2 metres.
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