Speckled Shield Cobra
Naja oxiana
A dangerously venomous cobra of Central Asian deserts and semi-arid regions, distinguished by its plain, faintly speckled scales.
- Venomous?
- Venomous
- Adult length
- 1-1.5 m (3.3-5 ft)
- Range
- Central Asia and parts of the Middle East (Iran, Afghanistan, Central Asian republics)
Found a snake like this?
Identify any snake from a photo, free.
Overview
The speckled shield cobra, commonly referred to as the Central Asian cobra, is a highly venomous elapid found across the arid and semi-arid landscapes of Central Asia and parts of the Middle East. It is one of the most medically important snakes in its range.
It is capable of raising a hood, though typically narrower than that of Indian cobras, and its potent neurotoxic venom makes it a snake of significant medical concern where it occurs.
How to identify it
- Uniform olive, brown, or yellowish-brown body, sometimes with faint speckling or banding in juveniles
- Narrower hood than many other cobra species when raised
- Smooth scales
- Round pupil
- Broad head distinct from the neck
- Lacks the classic spectacle marking seen in Indian cobras
- Distinguished from other regional cobras by narrower hood and plain appearance
Habitat & range
Inhabits deserts, semi-desert, rocky foothills, and river valleys across Iran, Afghanistan, Turkmenistan, Uzbekistan, and Tajikistan, often near water sources.
Behavior, diet & reproduction
Primarily nocturnal in hot weather, more diurnal in cooler seasons, feeding on rodents, birds, amphibians, and other reptiles. Raises its hood and hisses defensively when threatened. Oviparous, laying eggs in burrows or rock crevices.
Frequently asked questions
Is the speckled shield cobra dangerous?
Yes, it is highly venomous and considered medically significant across its Central Asian range.
Does it have a hood?
Yes, though typically narrower than that of some other cobra species.
Where does it live?
Across arid and semi-arid regions of Iran, Afghanistan, and Central Asia.
What does it eat?
Rodents, birds, amphibians, and other reptiles.
Speckled Shield Cobra guides
In-depth guides for identifying and understanding Speckled Shield Cobra.
