UPSC Prelims 2010·GS1·geography·ecology and environment

King Cobra is the only snake that makes its own nest. Why does it make its nest?

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Last updated 23 May 2026, 3:31 pm IST
  1. AIt is a snake-eater and the nest helps attract other snakes
  2. BIt is a viviparous snake and needs a nest to give birth to its offspring
  3. CIt is an oviparous snake and lays its eggs in the nest and guards the nest until they are hatchedCorrect
  4. DIt is a large, cold blooded animal and needs a nest to hibernate in the cold season

Explanation

The correct answer is C because the King Cobra is an oviparous snake, meaning it lays eggs. It is unique among snakes for building an above-ground nest made of leaf litter and debris. The female builds this mound to provide a protected environment for her eggs. She stays coiled on top of or near the nest to guard it from predators until the eggs are ready to hatch, ensuring a higher survival rate for the offspring. Options A, B, and D are incorrect because the nest is specifically for incubation and protection of eggs, not for hunting, live birth, or hibernation.
geography: King Cobra is the only snake that makes its own nest. Why does it make its nest?
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