Feb 28, 2025

How King Cobra differs from other cobra varieties

Siddhartha Jana

Scientific classification

The Indian Cobra is a member of the Naja genus, whereas the King Cobra is a member of the Ophiophagus genus.

Source: Canva

Length and Size

Other cobras are typically 3–7 feet long, but the King Cobra is the longest venomous snake, reaching up to 18 feet.

Source: Canva

Food Source

While other cobras eat small mammals, birds, and amphibians, the King Cobra mostly consumes other snakes, particularly poisonous ones.

Source: Canva

Toxicity & Venom

The King Cobra injects a lot of venom, which makes its bite lethal. Other cobras have more neurotoxic venom in smaller amounts.

Source: Canva

Hood and behavior

The King Cobra has a thin, elongated hood and employs intimidation to attack, whereas other cobras have larger hoods.

Source: Canva

Animals that hold their breath for hours in water