Discovery of Indian Cobra in Springfield, Missouri Location: Springfield, Missouri
Year Found: 1953
Estimated Value: $1,650*
In 1953, an Indian cobra (Naja naja) was discovered in Springfield, Missouri. This species, native to India, Sri Lanka, Bangladesh, Pakistan, Bhutan, and Nepal, is notorious for being one of the most common snakes involved in snakebite incidents in India. The Indian cobra possesses a highly potent venom that can lead to ventilatory failure rapidly following a painful bite.
Discoveries of 11 Poisonous Indian Cobras in Missouri Source: ©Three shutterstock/Alienz
In an unexpected turn of events, Springfield, Missouri, became the unlikely setting for the discovery of eleven Indian cobras from August to October 1953. These deadly reptiles slithered through the streets, causing alarm among locals. Residents resorted to using garden hoses and various tools to fend off the snakes. It wasn't until thirty years later that it was revealed the owner of a nearby pet store had released these dangerous creatures into the wild.
