Cobra Missing At New York Zoo

Over the weekend, a 20-inch long Egyptian Cobra has gone missing at the famous Bronx zoo. The reptile disappeared from an enclosure away from public view, but located in the reptile house at the facility.

Every species of cobra is extremely venomous and potentially fatal. The zoo is taking no chances, and has closed the reptile house as they continue to search for the snake.

Cobras are members of the elapid family of venomous snakes, and are widely believed to be be among the more intelligent snakes As with all snakes, they prefer to stay in cover unless they are hungry or thirsty, so the zoo might have a hard time locating this one.

I've always been fascinated by snakes, and have caught just about every variety that calls this region of Texas home, including our friendly Western Diamondback rattlesnake. They are efficient creatures and quite beneficial. Snakes eat disease carrying rodents such as rats and mice. Many farmers and ranchers will leave the non-venomous bull snakes alone if they see them in barns, because they know that they are better than a mouse trap.

That said, a deadly cobra in proximity to large gatherings of people is a recipe for disaster. Let's hope the Bronx zoo finds their wayward son soon. (via heraldtribune.com)