Samar Cobra

The Samar cobra is native to the central and southern Philippines, including the islands of Samar, Leyte, and Mindanao. It is closely related to the more northern Philippine cobra found on Luzon but is recognized as a separate species based on morphological and genetic differences.

It is a venomous elapid capable of spitting venom in defense, and its venom is considered highly potent, making it a species of significant concern in the regions where it occurs.

• Adults typically 1-1.4 m in length.
• Coloration usually brown to olive-brown, sometimes with a slightly banded or mottled appearance, and often a yellowish underside.
• Smooth scales, round pupils, capable of forming a broad hood.
• Distinguished from the Luzon Philippine cobra primarily by geographic range and subtle scale and color differences.

Found in lowland forest, agricultural areas, and near human settlements on Samar, Leyte, Mindanao, and neighboring islands in the central and southern Philippines, often in rice paddies and along waterways.

Primarily nocturnal, hunting rodents, frogs, and other small vertebrates. Defends itself by rearing, spreading its hood, and spitting venom toward a threat's eyes. It is oviparous, laying clutches of roughly 10-20 eggs.