Classic Battle

Returning from a supply run in Grahamstown, we noticed a snake in the road as we turned a sharp bend. We just missed hitting it, swerving away just in time to see it rear up and identify it as a Cape Cobra (Naja nivea). Worried that the next car might hit it, we slowed and watched from the rear window, hoping it would move off into the bush. As fast as lightning, a Grey Mongoose (Galerella pulverulenta) darted from the road side and began a classic and well rehearsed attack on the snake. Darting in for a quick bite and then dodging the sharp end in an equally fast manoeuvre. Every time he did this, it seemed he would get bitten. We watched for a few minutes until the traffic forced us to move on. I wonder if the mongoose wasn't purposefully keeping the snake on the road, hoping for a car to do his dirty work. Not that he didn't seem totally in charge and capable.

Posted: Kwandwe by Toast Seagers, Date: 28 March 2008