King Cobra
Ophiophagus hannah
Quick answer
The king cobra is the longest venomous snake in the world, reaching up to 5.5 m (18 ft). Native to forests across South and Southeast Asia, it feeds almost entirely on other snakes. Its venom is potent enough to kill an elephant in large doses, yet it is shy and avoids people. King cobras are also the only snakes that build a nest for their eggs. They live around 20 years.
King Cobra facts at a glance
| Scientific name | Ophiophagus hannah |
|---|---|
| Diet | Carnivore (mainly other snakes) |
| Habitat | Forests, mangroves, grasslands of Asia |
| Lifespan | ~20 years |
| Length | Up to 5.5 m (18 ft) |
| Venom | Potent neurotoxin |
| Conservation status | Vulnerable (IUCN) |
| Kingdom | Animalia |
|---|---|
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Reptilia |
| Order | Squamata |
| Family | Elapidae |
| Genus | Ophiophagus |
Behavior
The king cobra is intelligent and alert for a snake. When threatened it can raise up to a third of its body off the ground, spread its narrow hood, and emit a low growl-like hiss. Despite its fearsome reputation, it is generally shy and prefers to flee rather than confront people.
Diet and venom
Its scientific name, Ophiophagus, means "snake-eater," and the king cobra feeds mainly on other snakes, including venomous species. Its venom is a powerful neurotoxin delivered in large quantities; a single bite can deliver enough to be fatal to a human within hours if untreated.
Nesting
King cobras are the only snakes known to build a nest for their eggs. The female gathers leaves into a mound, lays 20 to 40 eggs inside, and guards the nest until the young are ready to hatch, an unusual level of parental care for a reptile.
Conservation
King cobras are listed as Vulnerable, threatened by deforestation, collection for skins and traditional medicine, and persecution out of fear. Protecting the forests of South and Southeast Asia is key to their survival.
Frequently asked questions about the King Cobra
How long is a king cobra?
The king cobra is the longest venomous snake, averaging 3 to 4 m and reaching up to 5.5 m (18 ft) in exceptional individuals.
How dangerous is a king cobra's venom?
King cobra venom is a potent neurotoxin delivered in large amounts. An untreated bite can be fatal to a human within hours, though the snake is shy and bites on people are rare.
What do king cobras eat?
King cobras eat mainly other snakes, including venomous ones, along with the occasional lizard. Their name Ophiophagus literally means "snake-eater."
Do king cobras build nests?
Yes. King cobras are the only snakes that build a nest for their eggs. The female heaps up leaves, lays her eggs inside, and guards the nest until they are ready to hatch.
Are king cobras aggressive?
Not usually. King cobras are alert and will display a raised hood when cornered, but they are generally shy and prefer to escape rather than attack.
Are king cobras endangered?
King cobras are listed as Vulnerable by the IUCN, mainly due to habitat loss and collection. Their forest homes across Asia are shrinking.
