The Chinese Cobra seen in Taipa, on Sunday (Photo by reader Justin Casey)
Cobras have once again appeared in plain sight in Macau, as a citizen encountered one last Sunday while walking his pet on the seafront in Taipa. Another witness also reported sighting a four-meter snake last week on Hac Sa Beach.
Based on the witness’ photos, which were analyzed by vet Ruan Du Toit Bester, the creature that was spotted by Justin Casey and his dog in North Taipa was identified as a Chinese Cobra with the scientific name of Naja atra.
Growing to an average length of between 90 centimeters and one meter, the cobra is believed to be a common species of snake in Macau. It’s usually black, gray or brown, and occasionally gold, in color, with a short, wide hood usually with white-eye spots.
According to Dr Ruan, the species eats frogs, rodents and other reptiles, as well as other snakes. It may bite humans or other animals if it’s being hurt or cornered.
“The most important info to give everybody is just to leave the snake alone. Leave it alone and it will go away. Don’t pick it up; don’t try and touch it; don’t try and kill it. If the snake is dead, do not try and pick it up; some of them pretend to be dead,” he stressed to the Times, adding that you should stand still and slowly step away when encountering one.
When defending itself, the Chinese cobra will rise up and strike downwards. Its venom is poisonous and destroys tissue. “When they bite you, it’s painful and may cause redness, swelling, blistering and tissue necrosis. Antivenom is widely available,” said the doctor. “Keep your dog on a leash at all times. If your dog gets bitten, take it to the vet immediately. If you get bit-
ten, go to the hospital immediately. Always try to take a picture or video of the snake you saw, or if it bit your dog or a human,” he suggests.
The species can be found around mangrove swamps, grasslands and open woodlands such as in the Coloane forest, generally hiding underneath objects. They usually come out at night, but they can sometimes be found in daylight warming up in the sunlight. “If it’s found in your home, call the police or a firefighter, or even the vet to capture it,” added Dr Ruan.
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