Furred Cobra

Discovery LocationMountainous Regions of Bhutan

Lead ResearcherDr. S. Wangchuk

Field Report Summary

Physical Description

This snake has the general morphology of a cobra, including a hood that it can expand when threatened. However, its entire body is covered in short, dense fur, resembling that of a mink. The fur is typically a dark brown or black, providing camouflage in the undergrowth. The head retains reptilian features, including forked tongue and lidless eyes. Its fangs are venomous, as with a regular cobra.

Habitat

Tropical grasslands and savannas.

Dietary Behavior

An ambush predator, consuming rodents and birds, paralyzed by its potent neurotoxic venom.

Evolutionary Origin

Gained a thick fur coat for insulation in high-altitude environments, differing from other cobras.

Behavioral Notes

Sheds its fur in one complete piece annually.