UPSC Prelims PYQ 2008: Snake species that mainly eat other snakes

For which one of the following snakes is the diet mainly composed of other snakes?

Krait
Russell’s viper
Rattlesnake
King cobra

Explanation

Option (d) is correct

The King cobra (Ophiophagus hannah) is famously ophiophagous, which literally means “snake-eating” in Greek. Its diet is almost exclusively composed of other snakes, both venomous and non-venomous, as well as lizards.

Infographic detailing King Cobra characteristics, habitat, and significance as part of National Reptile of India series. Includes lifespan, behavior, range map covering India and neighboring countries, conservation status (IUCN Vulnerable), diet, and ecological role with labeled visuals and color-coded sections.