In a rare encounter, the ground squirrels and meerkats united to chase away a cobra to protect their young.
The dramatic scene of ground squirrels and meerkats battling a South African cobra in the Kgalagadi Transfrontier Park was captured by visitor Lara De Matos, as reported by Latest Sightings on August 2. Matos and her husband witnessed this event while having lunch at the Nossob campsite.
The commotion near the swimming pool caught the attention of Lara and her husband. They observed the ground squirrels darting out of their burrows to confront the approaching cobra. The couple quickly grabbed their camera to record the action. According to Lara, the ground squirrels were very persistent, taking turns to block the cobra and divert its attention from various angles. It was a fight for survival, and the squirrels were aware that the snake posed a significant threat to the young ones hiding in the burrow.
“The squirrels took turns attacking the cobra from multiple directions. Suddenly, a meerkat appeared to take over the task. The group of squirrels paused to watch as the meerkat defended itself while also launching counterattacks,” Matos recounted.
Ground squirrels trying to chase the cobra away from their underground burrows.
A little while later, the meerkat retreated while the squirrels continued to harass the cobra, Matos noted. Eventually, when the meerkat returned to the fray, the cobra decided it was best to leave. The ground squirrels and meerkat followed to ensure it departed without causing further trouble.
The South African cobra (Naja nivea) is a medium-sized venomous snake that is highly dangerous. Its venom contains potent neurotoxins that can affect the respiratory system, nervous system, and heart. Its prey is diverse and includes other snakes, rodents, lizards, birds, and carrion.
Meerkats are small carnivorous mammals primarily found in Africa, but they also inhabit parts of southern Asia and Europe. They are known for their bold attacks on larger animals, often preying on lizards, insects, and venomous snakes. According to New Scientist, meerkats avoid snake strikes by moving very quickly. They are not affected by snake venom due to special acetylcholine receptors that are immune to the toxins.
