Monocled Cobra

The Monocled Cobra is distinguished from the Indian Cobra by the single O-shaped or monocle pattern on the back of its hood, as opposed to the spectacle marking. It is a medically significant venomous snake found primarily in Northeast India.

This cobra possesses potent neurotoxic and cytotoxic venom that can cause tissue necrosis in addition to neurological symptoms. In some regions, it causes more snakebite deaths than the Indian Cobra. The venom can be particularly destructive to tissue at the bite site.

Monocled Cobras are highly adaptable and can be found in a variety of habitats, from dense forests to rice paddies and even urban areas. They are excellent swimmers and often hunt near water. Like other cobras, they raise their front body and spread their hood when threatened.