King Cobra

The longest venomous snake in the world, capable of exceeding 5m, and a genuinely iconic — if rarely encountered — Bornean reptile. Feeds almost exclusively on other snakes, including other venomous species, and can rear a third of its body off the ground with hood flared when threatened.

Generally shy and quick to retreat from humans given the opportunity, but capable of delivering a very large venom dose if it does bite, making any encounter a serious matter. Widely respected and, in various local traditions, treated with particular caution and reverence; never approach, corner or attempt to handle a king cobra.