A popular Sea Point road is attracting Cape cobras

Earlier this week a Cape cobra was spotted on the balcony of an apartment building on Glengariff road.

This marks the second time in a matter of weeks that the highly-venomous snake has been spotted off the famous tree-lined avenue.

Just weeks ago, one was seen emerging from a storm water drain on the same street.

Judging by the photograph on Cape Town Etc, the location of the balcony visitor appears to be above High Level road, towards Signal Hill.

Nonetheless, local snake handler Tyrone Ping, who safely captured and relocated the snake, said this is the lowest he’s seen these cobras come down from their natural habitat.

“The cobra most likely traveled along the storm water drain from the mountain,” he said.

Ping, who is also founder of the Reptiles of South Africa YouTube channel, has removed 27 snakes from houses and properties in and around the city this year.

“And that’s just the areas I service, from the City Bowl all the way to the Atlantic Seaboard,” he told IOL this week.

Among his relocations was a puff adder that was captured in Camps Bay last month.

Not uncommon

In spite of these recurrent cobra sightings, Ping says it’s “completely normal” for this time of year.

He also noted that sudden weather changes can cause an uptick in snake spotting across the city.

“Typically, snake activity peaks just before we experience bad weather,” Ping added. “If we have really windy or cool weather, you’ll see more snakes out and about.”

What to do if you spot a Cape cobra in an urban setting

Ping also shared some insights about what residents should do if they encounter a cobra (or any snake) in their home.

“If you spot a snake, keep an eye on it,” he advised. “Make sure to watch where it’s going, whether it’s under a cupboard or fridge, or behind a pot plant. You need to know where it is.”

The next step is to contact a professional snake catcher. Ping’s direct number is 084 492 2542.

While a Cape cobra’s venom is highly toxic, bites are rare.

Have you ever had a venomous snake in your home?

Let us know by leaving a comment below, or send a WhatsApp to 060 011 021 1. 

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