Naja haje

Fully enclosed, lockable and escape-proof venomous terrarium ("hot" setup), ideally with an airlock or hatch allowing feeding and maintenance at a distance.

Minimum dimensions for an adult; larger is always preferable for this active, robust species. SAFETY comes above all else: locked closures, gap-free seals, double-checking before every opening, a dedicated room. Provide sturdy hides at both ends of the gradient and a low branch (the animal rears up and explores). Keeping is strictly regulated: certificate of competence / "venomous" authorization depending on the country; the availability of a suitable antivenom and a hospital emergency protocol are essential. Species NOT listed on CITES, but subject to national regulations on dangerous animals.

A rather dry to moderate atmosphere. Provide a humid hide (sphagnum moss), especially during shedding, to prevent dysecdysis; avoid stagnant humidity and a waterlogged substrate.

In a venomous setup, a simple, light-colored substrate (paper) makes it easier to spot the animal and allows quick, safe cleaning. Particulate substrates must be kept dry to prevent dermatitis (scale rot).

Not essential for a snake but beneficial: low-intensity UVB (Ferguson zone 1 to 2). Maintain a regular day/night cycle.

A large container of clean water available at all times, heavy and stable enough to allow partial immersion; renew frequently.

North Africa, the Sahel and East Africa, extending to the Arabian Peninsula; arid and semi-arid environments and savannas. The taxon Naja haje sensu lato was recently split (N. haje, N. arabica, N. senegalensis), which qualifies some data on its distribution and biology.

Carnivore — In captivity: rodents (mice, rats) of appropriate size, thawed. In the wild: toads (a major part of the diet), birds, small reptiles and rodents.

A voracious feeder, easily conditioned to dead rodents. Avoid wild prey (toads/amphibians), which introduce parasites and toxins. Feeding exclusively at a distance (long tongs); never feed by hand. Watch for obesity from overfeeding.

Clutch 8–20 eggs/young. Clutch of 8 to 20 eggs. Incubation of about 55 to 65 days at around 28-30 °C. Breeding a venomous species requires specific facilities and experience; handling eggs and neonates is already dangerous.

• Respiratory infections (mycoplasma/bacteria) promoted by inadequate cold or humidity
• Stomatitis (mouth rot)
• Internal parasites, particularly in wild-caught animals and with an amphibian-based diet
• Dysecdysis (difficult shedding) linked to too low humidity
• Dermatitis / scale rot on damp, dirty substrate; obesity from overfeeding