Fauna
Reptile

Chinese Cobra

Naja atra

Also known as Taiwan Cobra

Chinese cobras are adaptable predators inhabiting agricultural fields, shrublands, and woodland margins across southern East Asia. When threatened, adults lift the front third of their body, flare a broad dark hood marked with white spectacle patterns, and hiss loudly before striking. Their venom contains powerful cytotoxins and neurotoxins, making them one of the most clinically significant snakes in their native range.

VenomousReptileDiurnal
Chinese Cobra reference1 / 7
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VulnerableConservation statusIUCN Red List categoriesLCNTVUENCREWEXVulnerableRed List categories, explained →
Key facts
Diet & preyFrogs, Rodents, Other Snakes
Predators
  • King Cobra
  • Mongooses
  • Raptors
ThreatsHabitat destruction, collection for trade, vehicle collisions
HabitatsShrublands, grasslands, agricultural fields, forest edges
Life span12–20 years
Classification
  1. FamilyElapidae
  2. SpeciesNaja atra
Range & activity
Range data is not available yet.
Safe observation
Interaction riskVery high
  1. Low
  2. Moderate
  3. High
  4. Very high
Why interaction risk is very high
Highly venomous bite causing tissue damage and systemic toxicity; maintain a safe distance at all times.
Why it is dangerous
Delivers cytotoxic and neurotoxic venom causing intense pain, tissue necrosis, and respiratory distress without rapid medical care.
How to recognize a risky encounter
Dark grey to black body featuring a broad hood with a distinctive white horseshoe or spectacle mark on the back.
What to do
Never corner or attempt to capture this snake; back away slowly if it assumes a raised threat posture.
What to notice
Medium-sized dark snake that rears up and flares a broad hood when disturbed.
Support conservation
Keep clear of wild individuals and refrain from disturbing agricultural burrows or field rock piles where they shelter.
Responsible observation
  • Distance Warning: Stay at least five meters away if a snake rears up or spreads its hood.
  • Footwear Caution: Wear sturdy boots and watch your footing near stone walls and thick brush.
Related species
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