Did You Know About These 10 Venomous Snakes Found In India?

OT Staff

Indian Cobra (Naja naja)

The Indian cobra, a member of the "big four" venomous snakes, is recognised for its hood and distinct spectacle-like markings. Found across India, its venom attacks the nervous system, causing paralysis.

A close-up shot of an Indian Cobra | Wikimedia Commons

Russell’s Viper (Daboia russelii)

Another member of the "big four," Russell’s viper is widespread and highly dangerous. Its venom causes internal bleeding, kidney failure, and tissue damage, often leading to fatalities if untreated.

A shot of a Russell’s Viper | Wikimedia Commons

Common Krait (Bungarus caeruleus)

Known for its shiny black body with white bands, the common krait delivers neurotoxic venom. Primarily nocturnal, its bites often go unnoticed, causing severe respiratory failure if untreated.

A shot of a Common Krait | Wikimedia Commons

Saw-Scaled Viper (Echis carinatus)

Small but deadly, this snake is responsible for many bites in India. Its haemotoxic venom leads to severe internal bleeding. Known for its rasping sound, it’s often found in dry regions.

The stunning Saw-Scaled Viper | Wikimedia Commons

King Cobra (Ophiophagus hannah)

The world’s longest venomous snake, the king cobra, grows up to 18 feet. Its venom is primarily neurotoxic, and it can deliver multiple strikes, making it one of the deadliest snakes in the world.

A look at the King Cobra | Wikimedia Commons

Banded Krait (Bungarus fasciatus)

Identified by its yellow and black bands, the banded krait is shy but venomous. Found in forests and wetlands, its venom can cause respiratory failure and muscle paralysis if bitten.

A Banded Krait in its habitat | Wikimedia Commons

Hump-Nosed Pit Viper (Hypnale hypnale)

Native to South India and Sri Lanka, this small viper’s venom is haemotoxic, causing intense pain, swelling, and bleeding. It’s often mistaken for non-venomous species due to its size.

A look at a Hump-Nosed Pit Viper | Wikimedia Commons

Indian Rock Python (Python molurus)

Though non-venomous, it’s often confused with venomous snakes due to its massive size. However, venomous relatives like the Russell’s viper and king cobra often inhabit overlapping areas.

A look at the Indian Rock Python | Wikimedia Commons

Andaman Cobra (Naja sagittifera)

Found exclusively in the Andaman Islands, this cobra’s venom is neurotoxic, and its distinct hood markings vary from its mainland counterparts, making it a unique species in India.

A shot of an Andaman Cobra | Wikimedia Commons

Indian Coral Snake (Calliophis melanurus)

Rare and highly venomous, the Indian coral snake’s venom attacks the nervous system. Its bright red and black markings serve as a warning, and it’s typically found in dense forests.

A view of an Indian Coral Snake | Wikimedia Commons

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