Spitting cobra

Schematic comparison between sections of non-spitting cobra fangs (left) and spitting (right).
1: Section of the whole fang in the sagittal plane.
2: Horizontal section through the fang at the discharge orifice.
3: Frontal view of the discharge orifices.
Juvenile red spitting cobra, Naja pallida
Red spitting cobra

A "spitting" cobra is any of several species of cobra that can intentionally, defensively shoot their venom directly from their fangs. This substance has two functions, with the first being as venom that can be absorbed via the victim’s eyes, mouth, or nose (or any mucous membrane or existing wound), and secondly as a toxungen, which can be sprayed on the target surface. Their ability to target and shoot venom is utilised in several different ways, self-defense being the most common instance.[1] Studies have shown that the targets (at which the cobras shoot) are far from random; rather, spitting cobras consciously take aim, directing their spray as close as possible to the eyes and face of an aggressor.

  1. ^ Westhoff, G.; Tzschätzsch, K.; Bleckmann, H. (October 2005). "The spitting behavior of two species of spitting cobras". Journal of Comparative Physiology A. 191 (10): 873–881. doi:10.1007/s00359-005-0010-8. ISSN 0340-7594. PMID 16007458. S2CID 39976553.