Luzon king cobra

The Luzon king cobra (Ophiophagus salvatana) is one of four species within the king cobra genus (Ophiophagus), which contains the world's largest venomous snakes. These snakes are found in forests across India, Southeast Asia, the Philippines, and Indonesia. The Luzon king cobra is specifically found on the island of Luzon in the Philippines.1

King cobras are distinguished by 11 large scales on their heads and can vary in color from yellow to black, often with lighter crossbars. They primarily prey on other snakes and are active hunters, being diurnal and nocturnal. While generally not aggressive towards humans, they can be dangerous when threatened or during the breeding season, displaying a hood and a low hiss. Their venom is potent and can be fatal. Female king cobras uniquely build nests for their eggs.12