Andhra Pradesh - Visakhapatnam

A rare occurrence in zoo

The cobra that laid eggs in zoo in Visakhapatnam.

VISAKHAPATNAM: It could have been another feather in the cap of the Indira Gandhi Zoological Park. In a rare occurrence, the female cobra at the park had laid eggs at its enclosure. However, due to some disturbances and violent movement of snakes, the eggs got damaged. The zoo authorities spotted nine eggs at the enclosure four days ago. “Laying of eggs by the Indian cobra in captivity is a very rare occurrence. But, in the cases of pythons and rat snakes, it’s common,” zoo curator Rahul Pandey told The Hindu.

Though the eggs were destroyed this time, the zoo officials are optimistic. “It is an indicator of the health of the reptile. This happens only when it is in fine health and has a perfect diet,” Mr. Pandey said. The zoo at present has six Indian cobras. They are being fed with frogs, chicks and rats. These reptiles are very violent and aggressive in nature.

The cobra’s dramatic threat posture makes for a unique spectacle. Its distinct characteristic features are the wide black band on the underside of the neck, and the hood marking design which shows half-rings on either side of the hood. The Indian cobra is one of the most venomous snakes of the country. Symptoms of cobra envenomation can begin from 15 minutes to two hours after the bite, and can be fatal in less than an hour. It can also defend itself from a distance by ‘spitting’ venom, which, if enters the opponent’s eyes, causes severe pain and damage.

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