<P> Dorsal scales are smooth and strongly oblique . Midbody scales are in 23 rows (21 - 25), with 171 - 197 ventrals . There are 48 - 75 divided subcaudals and the anal shield is single . There are 7 upper labials (3rd the largest and in contact with nasal anteriorly, 3rd and 4th in contact with eye) and 9 - 10 lower labials (small angular cuneate scale present between 4th and 5th lower labial), as well as 1 preocular in contact with internasals, and 3 postoculars . Temporals are 2 + 3 . </P> <P> The Indian cobra is native to the Indian subcontinent and can be found throughout India, Pakistan, Sri Lanka, Bangladesh, and southern Nepal . In India, it may or may not occur in the state of Assam, some parts of Kashmir, and it does not occur in high altitudes of over 2,000 metres (6,600 ft) and extreme desert regions . In Pakistan, it is absent in most of Balochistan province, parts of North - West Frontier Province, desert areas elsewhere and Northern Areas . The most westerly record comes from Duki, Balochistan in Pakistan, while the most easterly record is from the Tangail District in Bangladesh . As this species has been observed in Drosh, in the Chitral Valley, it may also occur in the Kabul River Valley in extreme eastern Afghanistan . There's been at least one report of this species occurring in Bhutan . </P> <P> The Indian Cobra inhabits a wide range of habitats throughout its geographical range . It can be found in dense or open forests, plains, agricultural lands (rice paddy fields, wheat crops), rocky terrain, wetlands, and it can even be found in heavily populated urban areas such as villages and city outskirts, ranging from sea - level to 2,000 metres (6,600 ft) in altitude . This species is absent from true desert regions . The Indian cobra is often found in the vicinity of water . Preferred hiding locations are holes in embankments, tree hollows, termite mounds, rock piles and small mammal dens . </P> <P> Indian cobras are oviparous and lay their eggs between the months of April and July . The female snake usually lays between 10 and 30 eggs in rat holes or termite mounds and the eggs hatch 48 to 69 days later . The hatchlings measure between 20 and 30 centimetres (7.9 and 11.8 in) in length . The hatchlings are independent from birth and have fully functional venom glands . </P>

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