World Snake Day: India’s most venomous snakes to look out for

Compiled by Parvathi Anilkumar

Snakes are creatures that are not only symbols of peril but also of biodiversity. As we mark World Snake Day today, take a look at some of India’s most deadliest snakes that crawl amongst us

The King Cobra (Ophiophagus hannah)

The King Cobra is the longest poisonous snake in the world, and is feared and revered in India. It has strong neurotoxic venom and it only feeds on other snakes. It is commonly found in dense jungles and forests

The Russell’s Viper (Daboia russelii)

Many snakebite deaths in India are caused by Russell's Viper. Its venom results in kidney failure, excruciating pain, and swelling. It is found in fields and plantations. It is often mistaken for harmless species and becomes very aggressive when threatened

The Indian Cobra (Naja naja)

The Indian Cobra is identified by its hood and spectacle-like pattern and is deeply ingrained in Indian mythology. Its venom paralyses the nervous system. It is found in fields, forests, and close to residential areas

The Saw-Scaled Viper (Echis carinatus)

This small but fierce viper is known for its lethal venom and its distinct warning sound, which is made by rubbing its scales. Its venom results in severe internal bleeding. It lives in scrublands, rocky areas, and arid regions

The Banded Krait (Bungarus fasciatus)

The Banded Krait, distinguished by its black and yellow bands, is extremely venomous but only bites at night and only when provoked. Its venom is neurotoxic and paralysing. It can be found close to fields, water bodies, and thick forests

The Indian Krait (Bungarus caeruleus)

In India, the Indian Krait is the cause of numerous deadly bites. Its venom silently targets the nervous system, causing symptoms to appear gradually. It lives in fields, rural areas, and occasionally inside houses

The Common Krait (Bungarus candidus)

This snake's venom causes respiratory failure, making it extremely dangerous even though it is rarely aggressive during the day. It is found in human settlements, wetlands, and agricultural areas. Its nocturnal habits increase the likelihood of accidental bites

The Hump-Nosed Pit Viper (Hypnale hypnale)

The hump-nosed pit viper’s venom can result in serious local symptoms and complications. This snake is found in the forests and plantations of the Western Ghats and prefers humid settings. Although casualties are less common, bites may require hospitalisation