King Cobra

The king cobra is an elapid species of poisonous snake that is exclusive to the rainforests of Southern and Southeast Asia. The only cobra in the genus Ophiophagus, it may be identified from other cobras primarily by its size and neck markings. With an average length between 3.18 and 4 meters and a maximum length of 5.85 meters, the king cobra is the longest venomous snake in the world. Its skin tone varies according to the habitat, ranging from unbroken brownish-grey to black with white streaks. It mostly preys on snakes, even members of its own species. It rarely hunts other vertebrates like rodents and lizards, in contrast to other snakes.

Given the high concentration of neurotoxins and cytotoxins present, research indicates that king cobra bites can cause a person's death in as little as 30 minutes. Additionally, this specific snake frequently bites higher up on the body due to its length. Many cobras display unusual defensive postures that cause them to rise into the air with their hoods fanned in a menacing manner. The king cobra is no exception; these snakes frequently attack and latch onto anything that might be posing a threat to them.