In a spectacular showdown to celebrate 2025, the Year of the Snake, the Australian Reptile Park hosted an unprecedented event featuring a battle of the kings: the king brown snake and the king cobra. This thrilling encounter showcased the unique characteristics of these two magnificent reptiles, both of which were milked simultaneously in a rare and exciting demonstration.
It took four dedicated zookeepers to safely hold the massive snakes during this extraordinary event. While milking king cobras is not a common practice, the team at the Australian Reptile Park aimed to compare the venom yields of both species. The results were astounding, with the king brown snake emerging victorious, producing one of the largest venom yields ever recorded by Park Manager, Billy Collett.
“I couldn’t believe it!” Billy chucked. “The amount of venom that King Brown Snakes can produce is insane and really reminds you just how dangerous these really common snakes are in Australia.”
As expected, the King brown snake won the battle. They are renowned as Australia’s largest venomous snakes, boasting one of the highest venom yields in the world when milked. In contrast, king cobras, the largest venomous snakes globally, do not produce as much venom. However, they are considered even more deadly than their king brown counterparts. This fascinating comparison highlights the unique attributes of each species and their significance in the ecosystem.
Interestingly, despite the king cobra's lower venom yield, it requires at least 50 vials of antivenom for a bite, compared to the average of just two vials needed for a king brown snake. This stark difference underscores the effectiveness and quality of antivenom produced in Australia, showcasing the country’s commitment to snakebite treatment and research.
The Australian Reptile Park is proud to be at the forefront of snakebite management, making Australia the best place in the world to be bitten by a snake, thanks to its life-saving venom program. This initiative not only aids in the treatment of snakebites but also contributes to vital research and conservation efforts for these incredible reptiles.
As we enter the Year of the Snake, the Australian Reptile Park continues to educate the public about the importance of these species and the role they play in our environment. The battle of the kings serves as a reminder of the fascinating world of reptiles and the need for ongoing conservation efforts to protect these remarkable creatures.
