King Cobra vs. Cobra — What's the Difference?
Edited by Tayyaba Rehman — By Fiza Rafique — Published on December 16, 2023
King Cobra (Ophiophagus hannah) is the world's longest venomous snake, while Cobra refers to several venomous snake species, primarily in the genus Naja.
Difference Between King Cobra and Cobra
Table of Contents
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Key Differences
King Cobra and Cobra, though both are venomous snakes, belong to different genera within the Elapidae family. The King Cobra, scientifically named Ophiophagus hannah, stands out due to its immense length, often considered the world's longest venomous snake. On the contrary, the term Cobra encompasses various species primarily in the genus Naja, which includes the infamous Indian Cobra and Egyptian Cobra among others.
King Cobras primarily feed on other snakes, giving them the unique title of a "snake eater", whereas Cobras have a more varied diet, including small mammals and amphibians. Another distinctive trait of the King Cobra is its ability to produce a low growl from its trachea.
Cobras, while they don't produce such a sound, are renowned for their hood display when threatened. It's crucial to understand that while all King Cobras are Cobras, not all Cobras are King Cobras.
Comparison Chart
Genus
Ophiophagus
Primarily Naja
Diet
Predominantly other snakes (ophiophagous)
Varied: small mammals, amphibians, and other snakes
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Vocalization
Produces a low growl
Doesn't produce a growl
Hood
Has a hood but less pronounced
Notable hood that's displayed when threatened
Typical Length
Around 10-13 feet (can reach 18 feet)
Varies but typically less than King Cobra
Compare with Definitions
King Cobra
A snake primarily feeding on other snakes.
A King Cobra's diet often consists of smaller Cobras.
Cobra
A venomous snake known for its hood display.
The Cobra raises its hood when it feels threatened.
King Cobra
The world's longest venomous snake.
The King Cobra can reach lengths of up to 18 feet.
Cobra
Distributed across Africa and Asia.
Cobras can be found in regions ranging from Egypt to Indonesia.
King Cobra
Belongs to the Ophiophagus genus.
The King Cobra's scientific name is Ophiophagus hannah.
Cobra
Primarily belongs to the genus Naja.
The Indian Cobra is a notable member of the Naja genus.
King Cobra
Found mainly in the forests of Southeast Asia.
King Cobras thrive in the dense jungles of Thailand and India.
Cobra
Envenomation can be fatal to humans.
A Cobra bite requires immediate medical attention.
King Cobra
Known for its low growling sound when threatened.
The unique growl of a King Cobra can be intimidating.
Cobra
Features in various cultural myths and symbols.
The Cobra often symbolizes power and danger in many cultures.
Cobra
Any of various venomous elapid snakes, especially of the genus Naja, that are native to Asia and Africa and are capable of expanding the skin of the neck to form a flattened hood.
Cobra
Leather made from the skin of one of these snakes.
Cobra
Any of various venomous snakes of the family Elapidae.
Cobra
A type of lanyard knot, thought to resemble a snake in its shape.
Cobra
See Copra.
Cobra
The cobra de capello.
Cobra
Venomous Asiatic and African elapid snakes that can expand the skin of the neck into a hood
Common Curiosities
Is the King Cobra the longest venomous snake?
Yes, the King Cobra is considered the world's longest venomous snake.
Why is the Cobra known for its hood?
The Cobra displays its hood as a warning sign when threatened.
Which Cobra can produce a growling sound?
The King Cobra can produce a low growling sound.
Do all Cobras belong to the same genus?
No, while many Cobras are from the genus Naja, the King Cobra is from the genus Ophiophagus.
Where is the King Cobra predominantly found?
King Cobras are mainly found in the forests of Southeast Asia.
Are Cobras found only in Asia?
No, while many species are Asian, some Cobras are also found in Africa.
Are King Cobras and Cobras social snakes?
Both tend to be solitary and primarily interact during mating.
What's a unique feature of King Cobra nests?
King Cobras are one of the few snakes that build nests for their eggs.
What does a King Cobra primarily eat?
King Cobras mainly eat other snakes, including Cobras.
Are Cobras protected species?
Some Cobra species are protected in certain countries due to conservation concerns.
Can all Cobras spread their hoods?
Most Cobras can spread their hoods, but the display varies among species.
Which is more venomous, King Cobra or Cobra?
Both are highly venomous, but the King Cobra has a more potent venom.
How do Cobras typically catch their prey?
Cobras use their venom to immobilize their prey.
Is the King Cobra a type of Cobra?
Yes, the King Cobra is a type of Cobra but belongs to a different genus.
Do Cobras play a role in local folklore and myths?
Yes, Cobras are often revered and feature in many cultural myths and symbols.
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Written by
Fiza RafiqueFiza Rafique is a skilled content writer at AskDifference.com, where she meticulously refines and enhances written pieces. Drawing from her vast editorial expertise, Fiza ensures clarity, accuracy, and precision in every article. Passionate about language, she continually seeks to elevate the quality of content for readers worldwide.
Edited by
Tayyaba RehmanTayyaba Rehman is a distinguished writer, currently serving as a primary contributor to askdifference.com. As a researcher in semantics and etymology, Tayyaba's passion for the complexity of languages and their distinctions has found a perfect home on the platform. Tayyaba delves into the intricacies of language, distinguishing between commonly confused words and phrases, thereby providing clarity for readers worldwide.
