Cobra

Cobra is a common name for venomous snakes in the family Elapidae that are able to flatten the skin on their neck to form a hood when threatened. The term is usually applied to the true cobras of the genus Naja, which occur in Africa and Asia, as well as to other hooded elapids. The king cobra, Ophiophagus hannah, is not a true cobra by genus but is commonly referred to as a cobra.

Cobra species are generally medium to large snakes with smooth scales and a slender to robust body. A distinctive feature is the expandable hood, which is displayed as a threat signal. Size varies among species; the king cobra, for example, is among the longest venomous snakes, while many Naja species are smaller.

All cobras are venomous. Their venom is predominantly neurotoxic, attacking the nervous system, though some species have cytotoxic components that damage tissue. Bites can be dangerous or fatal without prompt treatment. Some cobras also have the ability to spray venom toward threats. Antivenoms exist for many cobras, and venom composition varies by species.

Cobras are distributed across Africa, the Middle East, and large portions of South and Southeast Asia. They inhabit diverse habitats, including forests, grasslands, deserts, and cultivated areas, and they often occur near human settlements.

Behavior and reproduction: Cobras are generally shy and avoid confrontation, but will defend themselves if cornered. They lay eggs (oviparous) in many species, with maternal care absent after egg laying. Some species are threatened by habitat loss, persecution, and collection, though conservation status varies among species.