What is the initial defensive display of the Equatorial Spitting Cobra when threatened?
Answer
Hissing loudly, standing erect, and spreading the neck ribs to form a hood.
When the Equatorial Spitting Cobra feels cornered or threatened, it initiates a sequence of escalating warning signs before resorting to spitting or biting. This sequence begins with auditory warnings such as hissing loudly. Following this, the snake will raise the upper portion of its body off the ground, positioning itself to stand erect. Simultaneously, it spreads its neck ribs to create the intimidating, characteristic hood shape. These actions serve as clear, visible and audible signals to the perceived threat that the snake is agitated and ready to defend itself, indicating that escape routes are likely blocked.

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