The world's longest venomous snake, native to South and Southeast Asian forests, known for the hooded display and powerful neurotoxic venom.
Description
The king cobra is the world’s longest venomous snake, reaching up to 5.85 m in extreme cases though most adults measure 3 to 4 m. Olive-green to brown with a yellowish belly, it can rear up to a third of its body length when threatened.
Behavior
Despite its size and reputation, the king cobra is generally shy and avoids humans. When threatened, it raises its head, spreads its hood, and emits a deep growl-like hiss. Its name Ophiophagus means snake-eater — it preys almost exclusively on other snakes.
Range
Found across South and Southeast Asia, from India and Bangladesh through Myanmar, Thailand, and Vietnam to the Philippines and Indonesian islands. It prefers undisturbed forests but is increasingly threatened by habitat loss.