King Cobras feed only on other snakes and lizards. They prepare a nest and lay 20-40 eggs which the female guards. This terrestrial snake is encountered both day and night, most often in forests and plantations. King Cobras usually hiss loudly before striking, and are the only Cobra capable of moving its entire body forward while in the striking position. This results in localized pain at the bite site, followed by difficulty with speech, swallowing, and breathing.
Death is due to respiratory paralysis and can be prevented by artificial breathing.