![]() ![]() Some cobras, including all spitting cobras, have cytotoxic venom that attacks body tissue and causes severe pain, swelling and possible necrosis (death of cells and tissue). Symptoms from a neurotoxic cobra bite can include problems with vision, difficulty swallowing and speaking, skeletal muscle weakness, difficulty breathing, respiratory failure, vomiting, abdominal pain, necrosis, and anticoagulation.” Īccording to the University of Michigan, human victims may stop breathing just 30 minutes after being bitten by a cobra. Viernum explained cobras’ neurotoxic venom’s effects: “Like coral snakes, cobras have potent neurotoxic venom, which acts on the nervous system. ![]() Fortunately, antivenin is available and sometimes lives can also be saved with the use of an artificial respirator. “Cobra bites can be fatal, especially if left untreated,” said Viernum. Like other snakes, cobras have a very slow metabolism that allows them to go for days or even months without feeding. According to the San Diego Zoo, most cobras hunt at dawn or dusk, though some species forage during the heat of the day. They slither through the wilderness silently, following their prey until they are ready to attack. Often, they eat birds, small mammals, lizards, eggs, carrion and other snakes. Cobras are also threatened from other snakes and humans.Ĭobras are typically opportunistic hunters, chowing down on whatever prey comes their way. They can bite the cobra’s back before the snake can defend itself. According to, mongooses have thick fur to protect against cobra fangs and often defeat cobras in fights using their speed and agility. The mongoose is the best-known enemy of the cobra. Wild boars and mongooses are known to steal cobra eggs. According to India’s SnakeWorld, cobras will stay near the eggs and defend them until they hatch. Females typically lay 20 to 40 eggs at a time, which incubate between 60 and 80 days. “Spitting cobras are able to project venom from their fangs towards their perceived predators,” said Viernum.Ĭobras reproduce by laying eggs. Cobras may hiss loudly at predators and other threats, and some species also spit. Most cobras can stand as tall as a third of their body length.” In addition to signaling a willingness to attack, this behavior helps them search for food. “These include hooding, hissing, and raising the upper portion of their bodies to stand erect. “The most distinctive behavioral characteristics of cobras are their defensive displays,” said Viernum. Credit: The Cobra Information Site (Image credit: The Cobra Information Site) Habits ![]()
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