FaunaHub

Cobra (genus Naja and relatives)

ReptileSnakeVenomous

Indian cobra (Naja naja) with its hood spread.

Indian cobra (Naja naja), hood spread in a defensive display.

Image: Dr. Raju Kasambe, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons.

Overview

Cobras are venomous snakes best known for the distinctive “hood” they spread by flaring loose neck ribs when alarmed. Most true cobras belong to the genus Naja, within the elapid family (Elapidae), and are found across Africa and Asia. The animal shown here is the Indian cobra (Naja naja), a reference for this group-level overview.

This is an educational profile. Cobras are venomous wild animals; they should only ever be observed from a safe distance and never handled or approached. This page does not provide medical or first-aid guidance.

Conservation note: status varies by species — some cobras are widespread while others face pressures from habitat loss and persecution. Verify specifics at iucnredlist.org.

Habitat & Range

Cobras occupy a wide range of habitats across Africa and Asia, including grassland, scrub, forest, farmland, and the edges of settlements. Many species are adaptable and may live near people, where rodents and other prey are abundant.

Diet

Cobras are carnivores that prey on small vertebrates — rodents, frogs, lizards, birds, and other snakes, depending on the species. Like other elapids, they use venom delivered through fixed front fangs to subdue prey.

Behavior

When threatened, a cobra often rears up and spreads its hood as a warning display, and some species can also hiss loudly or, in a few cases, spit venom defensively. Despite their fearsome reputation, cobras generally prefer to avoid confrontation and will retreat if given the chance. They are most active in warmer parts of the day or at dusk depending on species and climate.

Human Interaction & Conservation

Cobras feature prominently in the culture and folklore of their range, and they also help control rodents. Conflict with people occurs mainly where habitats overlap. From a conservation standpoint, habitat loss and killing out of fear are the main concerns. For current status, consult authoritative sources such as the IUCN Red List.

More photos of the cobra

Close view of an Indian cobra's head.

Indian cobra (Naja naja), head detail.

Image: Holger Krisp, CC BY 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons.

Frequently Asked Questions — Cobra

What is a cobra's hood?
The hood is formed when a cobra spreads elongated ribs in its neck, stretching the loose skin into a broad, flattened shape. It is mainly a defensive display that makes the snake look larger and signals a warning to potential threats.
Are all cobras the same species?
No. "Cobra" is a common name covering several species, most in the genus Naja (true cobras), plus relatives such as the king cobra, which is in its own genus. They share the hooding behaviour but differ in size, range, and details of their venom.
What do cobras eat?
Cobras are carnivores, preying on rodents, amphibians, lizards, birds, and other snakes depending on the species. They are important predators of small animals in their habitats.
What should I do if I see a cobra?
Keep well away and do not attempt to approach, handle, or corner it — give the animal space to move off. This page is educational only and does not provide medical or first-aid advice; for any snakebite or emergency, contact local emergency and medical services.

Sources and further reading

Authoritative wildlife references used for general educational context. Conservation status should always be verified against current IUCN Red List data. External links open in a new tab.