King cobra vs Russell’s viper: Key differences between two of the deadliest snakes found in Asia

If these two powerful snakes were to face off in a fight, who would emerge victorious? Let’s break down their key differences and analyse a possible outcome

By: Lifestyle Desk
New Delhi | April 16, 2025 06:30 PM IST

3 min read

A King Cobra vs. Russell’s Viper battle is a clash between two of Asia’s deadliest snakes. (Source: Wikimedia Commons)

The King cobra (Ophiophagus hannah) and the Russell’s viper (Daboia russelii) are two of the deadliest snakes found in Asia. While both are highly venomous and formidable predators, they differ significantly in size, venom composition, hunting strategy, and behaviour.

But if these two powerful snakes were to face off in a fight, who would emerge victorious? Let’s break down their key differences and analyse a possible outcome.

King cobra vs. Russell’s viper – Key differences

1. Size and Physical Characteristics

King cobra: The world’s longest venomous snake, growing up to 18 feet (5.5 meters). It has a slender body, distinctive hood, and a smooth, olive-brown or blackish appearance.

Russell’s viper: A stockier, shorter snake, typically 4-6 feet (1.2-1.8 meters) long. It has a thick body, triangular head, and beautiful chain-like patterns on its scales.

2. Venom Potency and Effects

King cobra: Contains potent neurotoxins that attack the nervous system, causing paralysis and respiratory failure. Despite its potency, it is not the most toxic venom per drop, but the large quantity injected (up to 600 mg) can kill an elephant or 20 humans.

The world’s longest venomous snake is King cobra, growing up to 18 feet (5.5 meters) (Source: Wikimedia Commons)

Russell’s viper: Hemotoxic venom, which destroys blood cells, causes severe pain, internal bleeding, tissue damage, and organ failure. A bite can lead to severe blood clotting disorders, making it one of the most dangerous vipers.

3. Hunting Strategy and Behavior

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King cobra: Active hunter that preys mainly on other snakes (even venomous ones like kraits and pit vipers). It is intelligent and cautious and will only attack if provoked.

Russell’s viper: Ambush predator, relying on its camouflage and quick strike to hunt rodents, birds, and reptiles. It is highly aggressive when disturbed and responsible for thousands of snakebite deaths in Asia.

Who would win in a fight?

In a hypothetical battle, the King Cobra would likely have the advantage due to its superior size, agility, and snake-hunting expertise. Since cobras regularly eat other venomous snakes, it would instinctively go for a decisive head bite.

However, if the Russell’s Viper lands a bite first, its fast-acting hemotoxin could severely weaken or even kill the cobra over time. However, the King Cobra’s larger size and fast reflexes make it more likely to strike first and avoid a lethal bite.

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In most cases, the King Cobra would win, using its superior intelligence, speed, and snake-killing instincts to overpower the viper before succumbing to venom. However, if the viper delivers a fatal bite, the cobra might not survive long after the fight.

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