King Cobra
The King Cobra (Ophiophagus hannah) is the world’s longest venomous snake, famed for its imposing hood and potent neurotoxic venom.
Origin Story
First described by Theodore Edward Cantor in 1836, the King Cobra originates from the forests and wetlands of South and Southeast Asia. It is a monotypic species with no recognized subspecies, primarily sourced from wild populations.
Classification
The King Cobra belongs to the class Reptilia and order Squamata, within the family Elapidae. Its genus is Ophiophagus, with the species name hannah, distinguishing it as a unique lineage among venomous snakes.
Appearance or Form
This slender snake can reach up to 5.85 meters (19.2 feet) in length, making it the longest venomous snake on Earth. Its coloration ranges from olive and brown to black, adorned with pale yellow crossbands. A broad head distinct from its neck supports an expandable hood, a hallmark feature. Large, fixed front fangs deliver its powerful venom.
Behavior or Usage
The King Cobra is a top carnivorous predator known for its rapid juvenile growth and solitary, territorial nature. Uniquely among snakes, it builds nests and actively guards its eggs. It exhibits high resistance to its own venom but juveniles remain vulnerable to predation by large mammals and birds of prey.
Merchandise & Prints
Bring this kind into your world � illustrated posters, mugs, and shirts.
King Cobra Poster
Archival print, museum-grade paper
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King Cobra Mug
Stoneware mug, dishwasher safe
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King Cobra Shirt
Soft cotton tee, unisex sizes
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Taxon-Specific Insights
🌍Cultural Significance
Deeply revered in Hindu and Buddhist traditions, the King Cobra symbolizes power and protection. It features prominently in regional myths and religious art, reflecting its esteemed status across South and Southeast Asia.
📌Notable Facts
- The King Cobra is the longest venomous snake globally, reaching nearly 6 meters.
- It constructs and guards nests, a rare behavior among snakes.
- Highly resistant to its own venom, it is nonetheless vulnerable as a juvenile.
- Its venom is a potent neurotoxin capable of rapid paralysis.
- International trade is regulated due to its cultural importance and conservation concerns.
🌍Habitat And Distribution
The King Cobra thrives in diverse forested and wetland habitats throughout South and Southeast Asia. Its range spans countries including India, Thailand, Malaysia, Indonesia, and the Philippines, favoring dense vegetation and proximity to water sources.
Visual Variations
Composition & Context
Taxon-Specific Insights
🦎Reproduction And Lifecycle
Unlike most snakes, the King Cobra builds nests to lay eggs and vigilantly guards them until hatching. Details on clutch size and sexual maturity vary, but the species exhibits relatively rapid juvenile growth. Lifespan in the wild is estimated around 20 years.
⚠️Conservation And Threats
While its exact conservation status is not formally assessed, the King Cobra faces threats from habitat loss, persecution, and illegal trade. International regulations control its trade, and conservation efforts emphasize habitat protection and public education.
🤝Interaction With Humans
The King Cobra holds a complex relationship with humans: it is feared for its venom yet revered culturally. It appears in traditional medicine and snake wine, though such uses are increasingly restricted. The species is also sought after for exotic pet trade and public display, with strict regulations governing these activities.