Chinese Cobra

The Chinese Cobra is a medium-sized cobra usually measuring approximately 1.2–1.5m, although rare individuals reach 2m. Its colour varies from brown or grey to iridescent black, sometimes with narrow pale cross-lines. The hood marking may resemble spectacles, a mask, a horseshoe or an O, while the throat has a clearly defined pale area. (Wikipedia, general species account)

The species occurs widely in southeastern China, including Hainan and Hong Kong, and also inhabits Taiwan, northern Laos and northern Vietnam. It uses woodland, shrubland, grassland and mangroves and can persist in several altered habitats. It is a front-fanged venomous snake and should never be approached or handled. (Wikipedia, general species account)