Sep 30, 2023, 01:10 PM IST

8 Bone-chilling differences between king cobra and Indian cobra

Mahipal Chouhan

Scientific Classification: King Cobra: Belongs to the genus Ophiophagus. Indian Cobra: Belongs to the genus Naja.

Size: King Cobra: Among the largest venomous snakes in the world, with adults often reaching lengths of up to 18 feet (5.5 meters). Indian Cobra: Smaller in comparison, with an average length of 4 to 6 feet (1.2 to 1.8 meters).

Venom: King Cobra: Produces a potent neurotoxic venom that primarily affects the victim's nervous system. Indian Cobra: Also produces neurotoxic venom, but it may have cytotoxic components as well.

Hood Shape: King Cobra: Has a broader, more elongated hood when it spreads its neck, creating a distinctive appearance. Indian Cobra: Has a narrower, more traditional cobra hood shape.

Coloration: King Cobra: Typically brown or olive green with pale yellow bands and a black head. Indian Cobra: Varies in color but is often brown, gray, or black with a prominent hood mark on the back of its head.

Range: King Cobra: Found in a wider range across Southeast Asia, including India, Southeast Asia, and the Philippines. Indian Cobra: Mainly found in the Indian subcontinent.

Habitat: King Cobra: Prefers forested areas, often near water sources, and is known to climb trees. Indian Cobra: Found in a variety of habitats, including agricultural areas and urban environments.

Diet and Behavior: King Cobra: Primarily preys on other snakes, including venomous species, and occasionally on small mammals and birds. It is more solitary and less frequently encountered. Indian Cobra: Feeds on a diet of rodents, birds, and amphibians. It may also be found in more populated areas and is responsible for more snakebite incidents due to its proximity to humans.

While both the king cobra and Indian cobra are venomous and should be treated with caution, the king cobra's larger size, potent venom, and unique characteristics make it a particularly fearsome and fascinating species.

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