Animals try to exaggerate their body size in a variety of ways to dissuade predators; the simple body shape of snakes limits the ways in which they can do this. One of the most common solutions — seen in hundreds of species — is to flatten their bodies to appear larger than they are. In some species, this flattening ability is limited to the neck region, as it is in cobras, hognose snakes and false water cobras.
Body- and head-flattening behaviors may be the most widespread defensive mechanism of snakes. From the harmless 12-inch-long brown snakes (Storeria spp.) of North America to the large and highly venomous tiger snakes (Notechis spp.) of Australia, body flattening is a widespread behavior. While some snakes that hood, flare or flatten are capable of backing up such bold displays with deadly venom, many are essentially harmless, and the behavior is a high-stakes bluff. The neck-flattening displays of some species — for example keelbacks (Rhabdophis spp.) and painted bronzeback snakes (Dendrelaphis pictus) — reveal the brightly colored skin between their scales, increasing the shock value of the display.
Cobras are some of the most iconic and recognizable snakes in the world, known for their intimidating hoods and deadly venom. However, there are actually numerous non-venomous snakes that have evolved to mimic the appearance and behavior of cobras, likely as a defense mechanism against predators. In this article, we’ll explore some of the most common snakes with hoods that resemble cobras.
Why Do Non-Venomous Snakes Mimic Cobras?
Mimicry provides survival advantages for harmless species. By imitating the physical characteristics and defensive postures of venomous cobras, these snakes deter potential predators who want to avoid a toxic bite. Some common tricks include flattening the neck, rearing up, hissing loudly, and swaying side to side. The more convincing the act, the less likely a predator will attack.
The Hognose Snake
Perhaps the best-known cobra impersonator is the hognose snake. When threatened, it will flatten its neck, form a hood, and put on an elaborate performance by hissing, striking, and even playing dead. This harmless snake rarely bites, but its dramatic routine is extremely effective at fooling predators. Hognose snakes are stout-bodied, up to 45 inches long, and found across North America.
The Oriental Rat Snake
Also called the Indian rat snake, this species mimics cobras found in its Asian habitat. It can inflate its neck, emit a rattling sound, and adopt a raised, hood-like posture. Though not venomous, oriental rat snakes are very territorial and will aggressively defend their space. They can grow up to 6 feet long with thin, elongated bodies.
The False Water Cobra
Despite its name the South American false water cobra is not a true cobra. It flattens its neck when threatened but does not lift its head up. This snake has a weak venom used to slash predators rather than inject venom. It also flattens other parts of its body, something real cobras cannot do. False water cobras can reach up to 10 feet long.
Other Notable Cobra Mimics
- The rinkhals from Africa mimics cobra rearing stance, hood flaring, hissing, and even spitting venom.
- Black mambas rear up and spread hoods much like cobras despite being different species.
- Cape coral snakes have small hoods and lift their heads when threatened.
- Shield-nosed snakes expand neck ribs and raise heads in defensive displays.
Why Accurate Identification Matters
Being able to distinguish between cobras and harmless impersonators is important for safety Misidentification can lead to unnecessary stress or potentially dangerous snake encounters. Understanding different species is also vital for conservation efforts, as populations rely on suitable habitat and protection When in doubt, seek help from wildlife experts.
Cobras vs Cobra Mimics: Key Differences
While the performances are convincing, some key differences separate true cobras from pretenders:
-
Venom – All true cobras are venomous, while most mimics are harmless. Exceptions include deadly black mambas.
-
Hoods – Cobra hoods tend to be larger and more pronounced than those of most mimics.
-
Head shape – Many imposters lack the classic tapered, triangular cobra head.
-
Body scale texture – Cobras have smooth, glossy scales rather than the rough texture of species like hognose snakes.
-
Habitat – Knowing native ranges helps distinguish lookalikes; for example, cobras aren’t found in the Americas.
By observing these subtleties, herpetologists and experts can correctly identify snakes that defensively imitate more dangerous species. With care and proper knowledge, even amateur observers can learn to tell the difference.
Snakes with hoods that mimic deadly cobras provide a fascinating look at defensive adaptation and evolution. While cobras have an unmistakable appearance, a diverse array of harmless species have developed clever ways to impersonate these iconic serpents and avoid predation. Being able to distinguish between the two is important for safety and conservation. With mindful observation and proper identification, we can appreciate these remarkable copycat snakes in their native habitats.
Cobras and Their Cousins
Cobras — particularly those of the genus Naja — exhibit the most distinct hoods among snakes. Different cobra taxa exhibit varying hood sizes and shapes: Indian cobras (Naja naja ssp.) display relatively round hoods, while king cobras (Ophiophagus hannah) and shield nose cobras (Aspidelaps spp.) have long, narrow hoods. Some cobras have evolved the ability to spit venom, though they may not always display their hoods before spitting. Perhaps unsurprisingly, many of the relatives of cobras display rudimentary hoods. Black mambas (Dendroaspis polylepis) of Africa and king brown snakes (Pseudechis australis) of Australia are both large, highly venomous elapids that spread a narrow hood as well.
South America is home to several species called false-water cobras (Hyrdonastes spp.). These occasionally large, semi-aquatic snakes display rudimentary hoods. Among North American snakes, it is the hognose snakes (Heterodon spp.) that possess the most well-developed hoods. Unlike cobras, hognose snakes usually display their hoods horizontally rather than vertically. If hood displays do not dissuade predators, hognose snakes will roll over and play dead.
Cobras: Hood, Venom and their mysterious CHARM #shorts #cobra #hood #venom #charm
FAQ
What snake looks like a cobra but isn t?
Even though they aren’t cobras, the National Parks Service says eastern hognose snakes will hiss and flatten their heads out like a cobra if they’re threatened.Oct 7, 2022
What is the snake with the hood called?
Cobras are poisonous snakes that flatten their necks into the shape of a hood when they sense danger.
How venomous is a hognose snake?
-
Mild Venom:Hognose snakes have a mild venom, but it’s not medically significant for humans.
-
Rear-Fanged:They are rear-fanged, meaning the venom-delivering teeth are located towards the back of their mouth.
-
Rare Bites:Hognose snakes are not aggressive and rarely bite, preferring to bluff their way out of threatening situations.
-
Mild Reactions:If a bite does occur, the mild venom can cause local swelling, burning, discoloration, or bleeding, but these reactions are usually mild and not life-threatening.
-
No Human Deaths Documented:No human deaths have been documented from hognose snake bites.
-
Not poisonous, but venomousHognose snakes are technically venomous because they have grooved rear fangs, and they use a mild toxin in their saliva to subdue prey.
Do snakes have hoods?
The neck-flattening displays of some species — for example keelbacks (Rhabdophis spp.) and painted bronzeback snakes (Dendrelaphis pictus) — reveal the brightly colored skin between their scales, increasing the shock value of the display. Cobras — particularly those of the genus Naja — exhibit the most distinct hoods among snakes.
Can a cobra spread a neck hood?
Virtually all cobras can spread a neck hood, varying in width, but a few snake species outside the family have evolved the power as well. Chief among them is the large-eyed bamboo snake (Pseudoxenodon macrops), which is widespread in China, Thailand and the eastern Himalaya.
How do Moila snakes look like cobras?
Moilas prefer staying at a 45 degree angle when flaring their necks, but occasionally rear up like a true cobra. The flaring is accompanied by a piercing hiss. Moilas are also a fast-moving, diurnal (day-faring) snake, just like real cobras. Even the shape of its mouth and the black dots for eyes are similar to a cobra.
Are hog-nosed snakes similar to Cobras?
Eastern Hog-nosed Snakes (Heterodon platirhinos) are one of the few species similar to cobras that are also native to North America. This is a snake that hisses, to act similarly to cobras. This has led to its nickname of The Hissing Snake in the US. Eastern Hog-nosed Snakes also elevate their heads in a defensive position.
Do hognose snakes have hoods?
Among North American snakes, it is the hognose snakes (Heterodon spp.) that possess the most well-developed hoods. Unlike cobras, hognose snakes usually display their hoods horizontally rather than vertically. If hood displays do not dissuade predators, hognose snakes will roll over and play dead.
Which snake has the most Hood spreaders?
The Hydrodynastes duo is most closely related to Amaral’s ground snake (Caaeteboia amarali), a rare Brazilian forest snake, which does have the power to flatten its upper body. After cobras and their close cousins, the Erythrolamprus family might be the group with the highest number of hood spreaders.