UPSC Prelims 2010 · General Studies

Question 103: Environment and Ecology

King Cobra is the only snake that makes its own nest. Why does it make its nest ?

aIt is a snake-eater and the nest helps attract other snakes

bIt is a viviparous snake and needs a nest to give birth to its offspring

cIt is an oviparous snake and lays its eggs in the nest and guards the nest until they are hatched

dIt is a large, cold blooded animal and needs a nest to hibernate in the cold season

AnswerThe answer is (c).

The king cobra is the only snake that builds a nest. The female scrapes together dead leaves and debris into a mound, lays her eggs in it and stays close, guarding them until they hatch; the snake is oviparous (egg-laying). It does not nest to attract prey, to give birth, because it is not viviparous, or to hibernate. Remember: the king cobra is a nest-building, egg-guarding snake that eats other snakes.

Why each option is right or wrong

(a) The nest is for the eggs, not to attract other snakes.
(b) It is oviparous, not viviparous.
(c) Right: it lays eggs in the nest and guards them until they hatch.
(d) The nest is not for hibernation.

Explanation: written by UPSC Grade, not by UPSC.

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Source: UPSC, Civil Services (Preliminary) Examination 2010, General Studies, Series A. The paper on upsc.gov.in.