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.
Key takeaway
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.
Overview
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.
Biology
King Cobra (Ophiophagus hannah) is classified as Reptile with conservation status Vulnerable. Typical weight about 9 kg; lifespan around ~20 years.
Ecology
Diet: Carnivore (mainly other snakes). Habitat: Forests, mangroves, grasslands of Asia. Movement and social systems reflect those pressures.
People and this species
Learn before you travel or keep related pets. Wild individuals are not toys; captive care needs species-specific husbandry.
Further reading
See the full King Cobra profile for FAQs, taxonomy, and related guides on this site.
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.
Research notes
Figures for king cobras (Ophiophagus hannah) come from field studies, museum records, and conservation assessments that do not always agree on exact averages. Prefer ranges over single-point claims, and check whether a source describes wild, captive, or mixed populations.
Practical takeaways
If you encounter king cobras in the wild, prioritise distance and local guidance. If you care for related domestic or captive animals, match diet and housing to species needs rather than generic pet advice. Share accurate status information (Vulnerable) when discussing conservation.
Sources
FAQs
King Cobra: Key Facts & Natural History?
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.
What is the scientific name of the king cobra?
Ophiophagus hannah
What do king cobras eat?
Carnivore (mainly other snakes)
Where do king cobras live?
Forests, mangroves, grasslands of Asia
Are king cobras endangered?
Listed here as Vulnerable. Check IUCN and national lists for the latest assessment.