King cobras primarily feed on other reptiles, including lizards, snakes (even other venomous species), and sometimes eggs. However, while reptiles are their main diet, they are also known to occasionally eat birds.
In particular, king cobras may eat bird eggs or, less commonly, small or juvenile birds. They are capable of hunting birds, but this typically happens when a bird is within reach, especially in areas where birds nest in low trees or bushes. The cobra’s ability to strike quickly and with precision makes it a formidable predator, even to small birds that might be nesting or perched nearby.
The king cobra’s diet is highly specialized, and birds don’t make up a significant portion of their usual prey compared to reptiles. They are most famous for hunting other snakes, which make up the majority of their diet, including species like rat snakes, python hatchlings, and other venomous snakes.
In summary:
- King cobras mainly eat reptiles (including other snakes).
- They occasionally consume bird eggs and sometimes small birds.