Why do snake charmers appear to make Indian cobras dance?

It is a common misconception that Indian cobras "dance" to the music played by snake charmers. In reality, snakes do not hear the music in the way humans do, as they lack external ears and are not responsive to the melodies produced by the pungi instrument.12

Instead, the cobra’s swaying behavior is a defensive response to the visual stimulus of the snake charmer’s movements. When the charmer plays the instrument, they typically sway it back and forth; the cobra, perceiving the instrument as a potential threat, follows the movement of the object to remain focused on the perceived danger.1

It is important to note that this traditional practice often involves the inhumane treatment of the animals, as charmers have historically removed the snakes' fangs or milked them for venom to reduce the risk of injury to themselves. Such practices are now restricted in many areas, including India, where laws have been enacted to protect these reptiles.1