King Cobra
Ophiophagus hannah
VulnerableFast Facts
About
The king cobra is the longest venomous snake in the world, an imposing forest-dwelling serpent that can rear a third of its body off the ground to meet a threat at eye level. Its scientific name means 'snake-eater', reflecting its specialised diet of other snakes.
When alarmed it flattens its neck into a narrow hood and emits a low, dog-like growl, a warning few other animals ignore.
Behaviour
Despite its fearsome reputation, the king cobra is generally shy and avoids confrontation. It hunts by actively tracking prey using its keen sense of smell and vision.
Uniquely among snakes, the female builds a nest of leaves in which to lay her eggs, then guards it fiercely until the young are ready to hatch.
Did you know?
- The king cobra is the only snake known to build a nest for its eggs
- A single bite can deliver enough venom to kill an elephant
- Its diet consists almost entirely of other snakes, including other cobras
- It can rear up to a height of over a metre to confront a threat
Distribution
Forests of South and Southeast Asia, including India and Indonesia
