The king cobra is an impressive, highly intelligent snake that plays an important role in controlling other snake populations. Despite its fearsome reputation, it is generally shy and avoids people.
Interesting facts
- It is the world’s longest venomous snake.
- A king cobra can raise about a third of its body off the ground and still move forward.
- Its scientific name, Ophiophagus, means ‘snake-eater’.
- It produces a low growl rather than a hiss.
- A single bite can deliver enough venom to kill an elephant, although bites on people are rare.
- Research published in 2024 proposed splitting the king cobra into four separate species.
Behaviour
King cobras hunt by day, tracking prey by smell. When threatened, they rear up, spread a narrow hood and growl.
Breeding and young
Females lay 20 to 40 eggs in a leaf nest and guard it for most of the incubation period of about two to three months. Hatchlings are fully venomous.
Threats and conservation
Habitat loss, killing out of fear, and collection for skins, meat, traditional medicine and the pet trade.
Where to see it
- Agumbe, Karnataka, India (research station)
- Chitwan, Nepal
- Khao Sok, Thailand
- Borneo’s rainforests
Status source: IUCN Red List. Profile last reviewed September 2026.
Chitwan National Park Safari Guide
