Indian King Cobra snake is a member of the
Elapidae Family. Read on to explore the facts about the King Cobra
of India.
King Cobra
Indian
King cobra snake belongs to the Ophiophagus Genus and is scientifically
known as Ophiophagus Hannah. It is believed to be the largest poisonous
terrestrial snake, measuring upto 5.7 m in length. However, the weight
of a King cobra rarely exceeds 44 lb (20 kg). The venom of a king cobra
is capable of killing a human being, with the mortality rate being as
high as 75%. Even though the name suggest otherwise, King cobra is not
of the same Genus as the other cobras.
Behavior
The king cobra of India is a shy and lonesome creature, which prefers
to lead an isolated life. It tries to avoid contact with humans as far
as possible.
Natural Habitat
King Cobra prefers Indian habitats that are strewn with lakes and
streams.
Geographical Distribution
King Cobra inhabits India, southern China, Malaysia, Indonesia,
Philippines and the dense highland forests of southeastern Asia.
Status
King Cobra snake is still not listed as an endangered species by the
IUCN.
Diet
King Cobra of India survives on a diet consisting mainly of other
snakes, which are mostly non-poisonous. It may also eat small
vertebrates, such as lizards.
Facts about Indian King Cobra
| Kingdom : |
Animalia |
| Scientific Name : |
Ophiophagus Hannah |
| Class : |
Reptilia |
| Order : |
Squamata |
| Suborder : |
Serpentes |
| Family : |
Elapidae |
| Genus : |
Ophiophagus |
| Species : |
O. hannah |
| Average Length : |
5.7 m |
| Average Weight : |
44 lb (20 kg) |
