North American cobra (SciiFii)

Not to be confused with the coral snake of the species Micrurus fulvius, which is known as the "American cobra".
The North American cobra (Naja americanum), also known simply as the American cobra, is a species of cobra of the genus Naja that originally did not exist, but has since been created by SciiFii and introduced throughout the rainforests, wetlands, forests, open woodlands, grasslands, shrublands, scrublands, and deserts across North America to help boost biodiversity. The North American cobra has a head which is elliptical, depressed, and very slightly distinct from the neck. The snout is short and rounded with large nostrils. The eyes are medium in size and the pupils are round. The majority of adult specimens range from 1 to 1.5 metres (3.3 to 4.9 feet) in length. Some specimens may grow to lengths of 2.1 to 2.2 metres (6.9 to 7.2 feet), but this is relatively uncommon. North American cobras are terrestrial and most active at dusk. In rice-growing areas and other farmland, they hide in rodent burrows in the dykes between fields and have become semi-aquatic in this type of habitat. Juveniles feed mostly on amphibians whereas adults prey on small mammals, snakes and fish. When disturbed they prefer to take flight. However, when threatened they will raise the anterior portions of their bodies, spread their hood, usually hiss loudly, and strike in an attempt to bite and defend themselves. They are often found in tree holes and areas where rodents are plentiful. The North American cobra's venom is weaker than those of other cobras, which means that the North American cobra has to hurry with catching and swallowing its prey once it has bitten as well as escape quickly from the predator, since it now longer can be paralyzed as strongly as before. Due to its venom being weaker, it is less lethal than the venom of native rattlesnakes. North American cobras are oviparous and lay their eggs between the months of April and July. The female snake usually lays between 15 and 55 eggs in rat holes or termite mounds and the eggs hatch 48 to 69 days later. The hatchlings measure between 20 and 30 centimetres (8 and 12 inches) in length. The hatchlings are independent from birth and have fully functional venom glands. The conservation status of the North American cobra is Least Concern due to successful conservation efforts, the North American cobra's wide range and its tolerance to many of the human activities.
Category:Animals
Category:Species
Category:SciiFii