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False Water Cobra (Hydrodynastes gigas)
Photo: J. Polák (CC0)
🐍 Native species of the Iberá

False Water Cobra

Hydrodynastes gigas

One of the largest snakes in Argentina: it can top two metres. Active by day and curious, it is the snake visitors see most in the Iberá.

When it feels threatened it flattens its neck like a cobra, which is why it is called the false water cobra. It is pure theatre: it poses no danger to people. It lives close to the water, hunting frogs, fish and even young caimans.

Behaviour

Active by day, it moves with its head raised through the marsh grass. It swims very well and is not shy: it often stares back before retreating.

How and when to see it

October to April, in the heat. While walking boardwalks and marsh edges, or crossing roads after rain.

Where to see it in the Iberá

The gateways of the Great Iberá Park where false water cobra has confirmed presence:

Tours to see it

Verified providers operating at the gateways where false water cobra lives. You contact them directly on WhatsApp from the app.

Species profile

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