King Cobra Ophiophagus hannah

King Cobra
King Cobra
The King Cobra is the world's longest poisonous snake, growing up to 19 feet (over 5 metres) length. It is native to South and Southeast Asia.
King Cobra
King Cobra
King Cobra
King Cobras are fast, intelligent and highly venomous. They have enough venom to kill an adult elephant or 12 humans.
King Cobra
King Cobra
King Cobra
When about to strike, cobras raise the front of their body, hiss and expand the flexible neck hood (see photo below for Snouted Cobra link).
King Cobra head
King Cobra head
King Cobra
Prey is mainly other snakes ("king" snakes prey on other snakes) but also other reptiles and rodents.
King Cobra head
King Cobra head
King Cobra
It is the only snake which builds a nest for its eggs. Juveniles have black and yellow stripes. King Cobras are threatened by poaching for food, skins and Chinese medicine.