Visitors can now see a King Cobra in the Lost World of Reptiles at the Australian Reptile Park.
He is one of a mating pair of King Cobras to arrive in the Park’s first exotic snake import for 20 years, which also included eyelash vipers, Western diamondback rattlesnakes and Honduran milk snakes.
A young King Cobra was also included, to be raised behind the scenes until it is ready for participation in educational shows.
Known as one of the world’s most famous species of venomous snake, the King Cobra stands as the longest venomous snake in the world.
Endemic to Southeast Asia, it can grow to an average of four metres, with the Park’s newest additions both exceeding that.
“We’re stoked to be able to share this exquisite reptile with our visitors for these Christmas school holidays,” Operations Manager Billy Collett said.
“After more than two decades of anticipation, I was eager for the arrival of our four new exotic species.
“But I have to say that seeing our three new King Cobras, in particular, brought an unmatched level of excitement.”
Also on show in the exhibit are a Western Diamond rattlesnake and an Eyelash Viper.
In anticipation of working with the highly venomous species, the Park has imported antivenom specific to these species to ensure the safety of its dedicated team.
The Australian Reptile Park has a long history of success in breeding King Cobras in captivity.
In 2005 it became the first and only zoo in Australia to successfully breed these majestic snakes, resulting in the birth of 20 baby King Cobras.
The Park remains dedicated to its core mission of conservation, education, and public engagement, offering visitors the chance to witness the beauty and importance of often-misunderstood creatures.