King Cobra: The 'Snake Eater' That Rules Asia's Jungles

• King Cobras, belonging to the genus Ophiophagus, are the world's longest venomous snakes, native to Asian forests and swamps.
• Despite their name, they are not "true cobras" (genus Naja) but are genetically closer to mambas, though they share hood-flaring behavior.
• Known as 'snake eaters,' they primarily prey on other snakes and possess fixed fangs capable of injecting massive venom quantities.
• They are reserved, preferring to intimidate with raised bodies, flared hoods, and growls before resorting to venom, which is a last resort.
• The longest confirmed King Cobra measured 18.7 feet, captured in Malaysia in 1937 and recognized by Guinness World Records.

Why It Matters: King Cobras are fascinating, record-holding venomous snakes known for their unique diet and reserved nature.