10 venomous king cobras spotted near Mount Everest spark concerns among scientists – Here's why

Venomous Snakes Found Near Everest Spark Worries Over Climate Change Shift (Image: Canva)

It’s not every day that one thinks of cobras slithering near the snow-covered slopes of Everest. But for locals in Nepal’s Dakshinkali region, this strange sight has become a worrying reality.

Ten venomous snakes caught in 45 days
Authorities have confirmed that ten dangerous snakes were rescued near Mount Everest in the past one and a half months. Nine king cobras and one monocled cobra were found across Gopaleshwar, Bhanjyang, Sokhol and Phulchowk.

Experts say the appearance of these snakes, especially the king cobra, at such elevations is rare. King cobras are the world’s longest venomous snakes. Though not the deadliest by venom, their powerful bite can kill 20 humans or an elephant.

These reptiles are typically seen in Nepal’s warmer Terai region and across northern India. Their sudden move to cooler mountain areas has left many concerned. According to officials, the snakes were rescued from homes and compounds with help from snake rescue teams. All were safely released into nearby forests.

Warming weather and shifting habitats
Climate change may be behind this unexpected migration. Temperatures in Nepal are climbing at a steady rate of 0.05 degrees Celsius each year. Wildlife experts believe the rising heat may be pushing tropical snakes to higher altitudes in search of better conditions.

“People have even found king cobra eggs and nests in local forests,” said Jaya Thapa Magar, ward chairperson of the municipality. Snake rescue trainer Subodh Acharya added that while some snakes may have arrived via trucks carrying logs or grass, they have now settled in.

Endangered species face added pressure
The king cobra is already listed as endangered in Nepal’s National Red Data Book and the IUCN Red List. Its numbers are threatened by habitat loss, human encounters, and frequent snakebite cases.

A 2022 Lancet report noted that snakebites are a serious public health concern in Nepal. Around 2,700 deaths occur each year in the Terai region, with women and children most at risk.

As experts continue to monitor these changes, they warn that further shifts could upset the delicate balance of Nepal’s ecosystems. Locals are urged to stay alert, especially while venturing into forests.