Monocled Cobra
Naja kaouthia
A highly venomous cobra of South and Southeast Asia distinguished by a single circular marking on its hood, resembling a monocle.
- Venomous?
- Venomous
- Adult length
- 1.2-1.5 m (4-5 ft)
- Range
- South and Southeast Asia
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Overview
The Monocled Cobra is a medically important venomous elapid found across South and Southeast Asia. It is closely related to the Indian Cobra but is distinguished by a single ring-shaped mark on the hood rather than a spectacle pattern.
It is responsible for a significant number of snakebite cases in its range, delivering a potent neurotoxic venom, and is considered one of the medically significant snakes of the region.
How to identify it
- Medium-large snake, typically 1.2-1.5 m (4-5 ft)
- Yellowish, brown, or grayish body coloration, sometimes with faint banding
- Single O-shaped or monocle-like marking on the back of the hood
- Broad hood when displayed, formed by elongated neck ribs
- Round pupils and smooth body scales
The single circular hood mark, as opposed to the double-circle spectacle pattern of the Indian Cobra, is the primary distinguishing feature.
Habitat & range
This species occupies a wide range of habitats including rice paddies, grasslands, forests, and areas near human habitation. It ranges across northeastern India, Bangladesh, Myanmar, Thailand, Indochina, and parts of southern China, often thriving in agricultural landscapes.
Behavior, diet & reproduction
The Monocled Cobra is active both day and night and is often encountered near rice fields and villages where rodents are abundant. It feeds on rodents, frogs, other snakes, and occasionally birds and eggs. When threatened, it raises its forebody, spreads its hood prominently, and hisses. It is egg-laying, with females producing clutches of around 20-30 eggs.
Frequently asked questions
Is the Monocled Cobra venomous?
Yes, it is highly venomous and considered medically significant across its range.
How do you identify a Monocled Cobra?
It typically shows a single circular, monocle-like marking on the back of its hood.
How big does the Monocled Cobra get?
Adults typically reach 1.2-1.5 m (4-5 ft) in length.
Where is the Monocled Cobra found?
It occurs across South and Southeast Asia, including India, Bangladesh, Myanmar, Thailand, and Indochina.
Monocled Cobra guides
In-depth guides for identifying and understanding Monocled Cobra.
Monocled Cobra identified by the community
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