Reptile · Venomous snake
King cobra care guide
Ophiophagus hannah
The king cobra is a expert-level venomous snake from S and SE Asia. Adults reach 300–500 cm and live 20–25 years in captivity. Snake-eating giant with huge venom yields; requires a room-sized, double-locked enclosure.
- Enclosure 360 × 120 × 120 cm
- Temp Warm 28–30°C, cool 24°C
- Humidity 60–80%
How much does a king cobra cost in Canada?
King cobra quick facts
- Skill level
- Expert
- Adult size
- 300–500 cm
- Lifespan
- 20–25 years
- Activity
- Diurnal
- Native range
- S and SE Asia
- Minimum enclosure
- 360 × 120 × 120 cm (142 × 47 × 47 in, ≈ 1370 US gal)
- Housing
- Best kept alone.
- Temperature
- Warm 28–30°C, cool 24°C
- Humidity
- 60–80%
- UVB
- Recommended
- Diet
- Carnivore – other snakes, frozen/thawed rats with snake scent
- Bioactive style
- Humid terrestrial
King cobra enclosure & bioactive setup
Give one adult at least 360 × 120 × 120 cm (142 × 47 × 47 inches). Best kept alone. This species suits a humid terrestrial bioactive build.
- Leaf litter2 cm
- Jurassic ABG Terrarium Mix12 cm
- Drainage – clay bio balls3 cm
Deep, moist soil is what holds humidity in this build – much better than thin bedding, especially through Canadian winters.
Temperature: Warm 28–30°C, cool 24°C. Humidity: 60–80%. UVB: Recommended.
Some Canadian provinces and many municipalities restrict or ban this species. Check your local bylaws and any provincial permit rules before buying.
What does a king cobra eat?
Carnivore – other snakes, frozen/thawed rats with snake scent. Feed one appropriately sized prey item every 7–14 days.
Handling, temperament & health
Intelligent and highly dangerous; for institutions and top specialists only.
Health watch: Watch for feeding refusal and respiratory infections.
Cleaning & maintenance schedule
Daily
- Check warm and cool side temperatures and humidity.
- Refresh the water bowl.
Weekly
- Mist or pour water into the substrate to keep the lower layers moist.
- Spot-clean large waste promptly.
Monthly
- Top up leaf litter.
- Stir and fluff compacted topsoil around hides.
- Check heat sources and thermostat calibration.
Yearly
- Partially refresh soil in high-traffic areas.
- Replace UVB bulbs (if used).
Recommended for a king cobra bioactive
Quantities are for one minimum-size enclosure (360 × 120 × 120 cm).
Clay Bio Balls
Drainage layer, 3 cm
Jurassic ABG Terrarium Mix
Bioactive soil layer, 12 cm
Cypress Substrate
Optional top layer (cypress)
Red Oak Leaves 15/Pack
Leaf litter – food and cover for the clean-up crew
Fresh Sphagnum Moss Container
Moss for humidity pockets and planting
Cork Bark Tubes
Secure hides at both ends of the gradient
Malaysian Drift Wood
Sturdy enrichment for heavy-bodied animals
King cobra FAQ
Is the king cobra good for beginners?
No – the king cobra is a specialist animal for expert keepers only. Intelligent and highly dangerous; for institutions and top specialists only.
What size enclosure does a king cobra need?
At least 360 × 120 × 120 cm (about 142 × 47 × 47 inches, roughly 1370 US gallons) for one adult. Best kept alone.
How much does a king cobra cost in Canada?
Typically $2000–5000 CAD to buy, about $6510–11380 CAD for a complete bioactive enclosure, and $1000–2000 CAD a year to keep.
What temperature and humidity does a king cobra need?
Temperature: Warm 28–30°C, cool 24°C. Humidity: 60–80%.
What does a king cobra eat?
Carnivore – other snakes, frozen/thawed rats with snake scent. Feed one appropriately sized prey item every 7–14 days.
Similar species
This care sheet is general guidance from One Bioactive, not veterinary advice. Needs vary with age, locality and individual animals – confirm with your breeder and an exotics vet. Prices are typical Canadian ranges in CAD and change over time.