![]() ![]() Unlike many of the other snakes found in Khao Sok, such as the reticulated python and mangrove pit viper, the cobra has round eyes with round pupils. The monocled cobra also has a pair of fixed anterior fangs, from which they pump venom into their prey. The distinctive cobra hood is created by elongated nuchal ribs, which can expand the neck on demand. The belly of the monocled cobra is generally the same colour as its back, only a lighter shade. The dorsal scales along the snakes back can range from yellow or grey to brown and even black, and may or may not have bands running across it. As a highly poisonous snake with a short temper, we don’t recommend getting up close to ascertain which is which!ĭue to their adaptation to various habitats across Asia, the general appearance of the monocled cobra can vary. The monocled cobra is identified by the circular marking on the back of its hood, though it is often confused with the spectacled cobra, which has a distinctive double circle marking. Today, we recognise Naja kaouthia as a singular species of cobra which can vary in colouration dependent largely on its habitat. In the years that followed, further discoveries of Naja kaouthia which presented with different colourings were misreported as subspecies under a variety of names. The monocled cobra was first recorded by a Western naturalist in 1831, Monsieur René Lesson. As a sign of royalty, a cobra was often sculpted into the headdress of Egyptian royalty, such as that worn by Queen Cleopatra. In Hinduism, the god Shiva is pictured meditating with a cobra around his neck, while Vishnu is often depicted creating the universe, resting atop a cobra. Cobras have held an important place historically, throughout Asia and Africa, but particularly in India and Egypt. ![]()
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