This 3.5 metre specimen was found in Taman Negara, Pahang, Peninsular Malaysia.
 

The black-edged head shields are an aid to identification.

Family : ELAPIDAE
Species : Ophiophagus hannah
Maximum Size : 5.85 metres

References : H1, H2, H3

The aptly-named King Cobra is the world's largest venomous snake. Its name is familiar to the general public, on account of its fierce reputation, and its appearance in 'snake-shows' in parts of Asia.

	The underside of the neck is pale in colour.  .
	Dark-edged scales occur along much of the body and tail.
	The tail has dark-edged scales.

In Southeast Asia the species appears to be far less aggressive than its cousins in India. Females can be extremely aggressive, however, when defending their clutch of eggs, concealed in nest built of vegetation. A single bite from a King Cobra may result in a fatality if not quickly treated.

The species inhabits forests and plantations from the lowlands to around 2000 metres altitude. It feeds mainly on other snakes, particularly rat snakes, and sometimes lizards. The scientific name of Ophiophagus means 'snake-eating'. Active by day or night, it is commonly found patrolling forest streams.

Adults can be identified by their huge size and, when fully spread, their majestic hood. Smaller specimens may be confused with rat snakes. The most reliable means to identification are the large, black-edged head shields (i.e. the scales on top of the head).

Body colour can be various shades of brown including olive-brown, yellow-brown, medium brown, dark brown, or occasionally black. Juveniles are dark bodied with equally-spaced, narrow, pale yellow bands, and a pale yellow underside.

The King Cobra ranges from India, Bangladesh and other parts of the Indian Subcontinent to Southern China and most of Southeast Asia.