10-ft-long King cobra found in Cachar village, released at Borail sanctuary

A 10-ft-long King cobra (weighing around 7.30 kilograms) was found at Choto Jalenga in Cachar district on Friday.

Sources said the snake was spotted by residents this afternoon at Choto Jalenga, around 26km from Silchar. Later, the reptile was released at Borail wildlife sanctuary by forest officials.

Assam forest and environment minister Parimal Suklabaidya, who posted about the news on social media, appealed to the people of Assam to to assist the forest department in rescuing animals and save wildlife, especially when the state is witnessing an unpleasant time because of floods.

He mentioned that people, in case of emergencies, can contact on the toll free number 0361-2332830 or contact the nearest forest office for any assistance.

The King cobra (Ophiophagus hannah) is a venomous snake species in the family Elapidae, endemic to forests from India through Southeast Asia. It is threatened by habitat destruction and has been listed as “vulnerable” on the IUCN Red List since 2010.

Adult king cobras are 3.18 to 4 m (10.4 to 13.1 ft) long. The reptile prey on other snakes and occasionally on some other vertebrates, such as lizards and rodents.