King Cobra vs. Green Anaconda: What's the Difference?
Edited by Harlon Moss || By Janet White || Published on November 13, 2023
King Cobra is a highly venomous snake prevalent in Asia, while the Green Anaconda, a non-venomous snake, is found in South America and is notably the heaviest snake in the world.
Key Differences
King Cobra and Green Anaconda exhibit unique attributes. The King Cobra, scientifically known as Ophiophagus hannah, is renowned for its potent venom and its hood, which expands when the snake feels threatened. In contrast, the Green Anaconda, Eunectes murinus, is well-known for its massive size and its semi-aquatic nature.
Both King Cobra and Green Anaconda have captivated humans for centuries, symbolizing various concepts in different cultures. While the King Cobra is often intertwined with Asian cultural and religious symbols, representing power and mysticism, the Green Anaconda is embedded in South American folklore and is sometimes associated with local myths and legends.
When exploring habitats, the King Cobra prefers areas with lakes and streams, navigating through the forests of Southeast Asia and India. The Green Anaconda, however, predominantly resides in the swamps, marshes, and slow-moving streams of the Amazon and Orinoco basins in northern South America, reflecting their semi-aquatic predispositions.
The King Cobra preys mostly on other snakes, and occasionally on small vertebrates, leveraging its highly toxic venom to immobilize its prey. The Green Anaconda employs a drastically different strategy, relying on its immense size and strength to constrict and subdue its prey, which ranges from fish and birds to mammals.
While King Cobras are solitary creatures and exhibit oviparous reproduction, laying eggs that require incubation, Green Anacondas exhibit ovoviviparous reproduction, where offspring are born live. The King Cobra lays eggs in a nest and exhibits a rare parental trait of guarding them, while the Green Anaconda births live young, which are independent immediately upon birth.
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Comparison Chart
Scientific Name
Ophiophagus hannah
Eunectes murinus
Habitat
Forests in India and Southeast Asia
Amazon and Orinoco basins in South America
Venomous
Yes
No
Reproduction
Oviparous (lays eggs)
Ovoviviparous (gives birth to live young)
Predominant Prey
Mainly other snakes
Fish, birds, and mammals
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Size
Up to 18 feet, typically around 13 feet
Up to 30 feet, commonly 10-20 feet
Weight
Can weigh up to 20 kg (44 lbs)
Can weigh up to 227 kg (500 lbs)
Conservation Status
Vulnerable (IUCN Red List)
Not evaluated by the IUCN
Predatory Method
Uses venom to subdue prey
Constricts prey
Lifespan
Typically 20 years in the wild
Can be up to 30 years in captivity
King Cobra and Green Anaconda Definitions
King Cobra
Hood Display
When threatened, the King Cobra expands its hood.
Green Anaconda
Non-Venomous
Despite its fearsome reputation, the Green Anaconda is non-venomous.
King Cobra
Snake Eater
Uniquely, the King Cobra primarily preys on other snakes.
Green Anaconda
Dappled Giant
The Green Anaconda can be recognized by its olive color and black blotches.
King Cobra
Lengthy Reptile
The King Cobra can grow up to 18 feet in length.
Green Anaconda
Hefty Constrictor
The Green Anaconda uses its massive body to constrict prey.
King Cobra
Parental Snake
Female King Cobras are known to guard their eggs diligently.
Green Anaconda
Aquatic Predator
Primarily aquatic, Green Anacondas often hunt in water.
King Cobra
Venomous Serpent
The King Cobra is one of the most venomous snakes in the world.
Green Anaconda
Live Birth
Unlike many snakes, the Green Anaconda gives birth to live young.
FAQs
What is the scientific name of the King Cobra?
Ophiophagus hannah.
What is the main diet of the King Cobra?
It predominantly eats other snakes.
Is the King Cobra the longest venomous snake?
Yes, it is the world's longest venomous snake.
Where is the King Cobra found?
Primarily in forests throughout India and Southeast Asia.
What is the average length of a King Cobra?
They can grow up to 18 feet but average around 13 feet.
Are King Cobras endangered?
They are listed as Vulnerable on the IUCN Red List.
Do King Cobras live in groups?
No, they are generally solitary animals.
Where can Green Anacondas be found?
In the Amazon and Orinoco basins in South America.
How do Green Anacondas reproduce?
They give birth to live young (ovoviviparous reproduction).
How does a King Cobra defend itself?
It expands its hood and can deliver a venomous bite.
How venomous is the King Cobra?
It has one of the most potent snake venoms.
What is the scientific name of the Green Anaconda?
Eunectes murinus.
Are Green Anacondas venomous?
No, they are non-venomous constrictor snakes.
How does the King Cobra reproduce?
It is oviparous, laying eggs and often guards them.
Do Green Anacondas have predators?
Fully-grown anacondas have few natural predators, but young can be preyed upon by large birds, wild boars, or caimans.
How does the Green Anaconda kill its prey?
It constricts its prey to death.
How long can a Green Anaconda get?
It can grow up to 30 feet, but typically ranges from 10 to 20 feet.
What is the diet of a Green Anaconda?
It eats a varied diet, including fish, birds, mammals, and occasionally reptiles.
What is the Green Anaconda’s primary habitat?
They primarily inhabit slow-moving rivers and swamps.
Is the Green Anaconda the heaviest snake?
Yes, it is considered the heaviest, although not the longest snake.
About Author
Written by
Janet WhiteJanet White has been an esteemed writer and blogger for Difference Wiki. Holding a Master's degree in Science and Medical Journalism from the prestigious Boston University, she has consistently demonstrated her expertise and passion for her field. When she's not immersed in her work, Janet relishes her time exercising, delving into a good book, and cherishing moments with friends and family.
Edited by
Harlon MossHarlon is a seasoned quality moderator and accomplished content writer for Difference Wiki. An alumnus of the prestigious University of California, he earned his degree in Computer Science. Leveraging his academic background, Harlon brings a meticulous and informed perspective to his work, ensuring content accuracy and excellence.
