Ssssssssssssssssssssssssssssssssss………….I am the snake.   All the things that the other animals say about me are not true. I am the prettiest animal in South Africa. I have beautiful colours and can hissssssssssss better than anyone else. Many children are scared of me, but that is all nonsense. Most of my friends are not poisonous and only bite when they are in danger.   I am a special snake and my name is "Cape Cobra". I have very poisonous fangs that I use to defend myself against predators that want to eat me. But I don't put up with that! When I am in my attacking position I lift my head and my neck becomes completely flat like a hood. So you have to be very careful when you see me. Most of the time I will hide underneath rocks or bushes before you see me.   Sometimes I look for a rock were I can sunbathe and warm up. I just need the heat. The nights in South Africa can be very cold and after I sunbathe I feel muuuuch better. So you will probably not even see me when you come to South Africa.   Oh, I almost forgot, this morning I heard on the radio that the children in South Africa are already taught in preschool that they must not grab into holes without knowing what is inside. You should remember that too! I don't know who wants to get into my house and I will bite to protect myself. I don't want to hurt you but I have to protect my family. So, don't forget:  Don't grab into dark holes before knowing what is inside. It can be very dangerous.   If you go hiking with your parents, put on closed shoes that cover your ankles. It could be that I am faaaaast asleep and you step on me. Then, if I bite you and your feet are covered, you are not in danger.   If you want to come and visit me, you can find me anywhere in South Africa where it is nice and warm. I am very good at hide and seek, so you will probably not see me, but I will definitely see you.   I am getting cold and need to go and lie in the sun to warm up.  Until then, Mr Snake.