Storm's Water Cobra

Storm's water cobra (Naja annulata) is one of several water cobra species restricted to the rivers, lakes, and swamps of the Congo Basin. It is a true elapid but has evolved a lifestyle more typical of aquatic colubrids, spending much of its time in and around water hunting fish.

The species is venomous and its bite is considered medically significant, though encounters with humans are infrequent given its remote, often inaccessible habitat.

Storm's water cobra has smooth, glossy scales and a somewhat flattened body suited to swimming.

• Coloration is variable, often dark brown, olive, or blackish with lighter crossbands or a banded pattern, especially in juveniles
• Head is moderately distinct from the neck and can flare a hood, though less broadly than typical cobras
• Eyes have round pupils
• Adults typically reach 1.5-2.2 m
• Ventral scales are often pale, contrasting with the darker dorsum

Found in rivers, lakes, and swampy forest waterways throughout the Congo Basin, including the Congo River system. It is closely tied to permanent water bodies and adjacent riverine forest, rarely venturing far from aquatic habitat.

Primarily nocturnal and highly aquatic, hunting fish as its main prey by foraging along riverbanks and submerged vegetation. It is an agile swimmer and diver. When threatened, it can rear and spread a hood like other cobras. Reproduction is oviparous, with females laying clutches of eggs.