17th March, 2024
CHIRANJIT MITRA
● King Cobra: The undisputed heavyweight champ, reaching 18 feet (5.5 meters). ● Black Mamba: While still impressive, these snakes are shorter, averaging 8-10 feet (2.5-3 meters).
● King Cobra: Reigns supreme in Southeast Asia, particularly India and the Philippines. ● Black Mamba: Calls sub-Saharan Africa home, thriving in savannas and woodlands.
● King Cobra: Lives up to its name, primarily preying on other snakes, including venomous ones. ● Black Mamba: Prefers a broader menu, including small mammals, birds, and lizards.
● Black Mamba: Drop for drop, Black Mamba venom is more toxic, acting on the nervous system with lightning speed. ● King Cobra: Delivers a larger venom dose, enough to kill an elephant! However, its venom may take longer to take effect.
● King Cobra: Generally avoids confrontation, raising its hood and displaying its impressive neck frill as a warning. ● Black Mamba: Nicknamed the "Flash" for a reason – highly aggressive and known for rapid strikes when threatened.
● King Cobra: Spends much time on the ground but is also comfortable climbing trees. ● Black Mamba: Primarily a terrestrial snake, but can climb when necessary, especially when young.
● King Cobra: Olive-green, brown, or black with a lighter underbelly. ● Black Mamba: True to its name, this snake is usually dark brown or black with a hint of olive or grey.
● King Cobra: Belongs to the genus Ophiophagus, meaning "snake-eater." ● Black Mamba: Part of the genus Dendroaspis, which translates to "tree-asp."
● King Cobra: Habitat loss and poaching threaten King Cobra populations. ● Black Mamba: Habitat destruction and human-snake conflict endanger Black Mambas.