The Chinese cobra is highly venomous, so take care to protect yourself when working in the fields.

The Chinese cobra is a large venomous snake in the genus Naja of the family Elapidae, commonly known among the public as the Zhoushan cobra or "rice-shovel head." It is mainly distributed across the hilly and plains regions south of the Yangtze River in China, and is often found in farmland, thickets, paddy fields and near streams. Adults generally measure from just over one meter to two meters in total length, with body colors mainly blackish brown and grayish black.

Its typical feature is that when alarmed it raises the front part of its body and flattens its neck; in some individuals the pale markings on the back of the neck resemble a pair of spectacles, which is also the origin of its name. Its venom is mainly neurotoxic, and also contains components that cause strong damage to local tissue. If bitten and not treated promptly, it can lead to serious consequences.

In terms of habits, this snake is active both by day and by night, often foraging along field ridges, ditches and watersides. Its food includes rodents, frogs, other snakes, as well as fish and bird eggs. For the farmland ecosystem, it can prey on rats and help control rodent damage, making it an important link in the food chain. Therefore, when encountered, it is best to avoid it rather than kill it at will.

When working in the fields, it is best to wear rubber boots and long pants. Before turning over stone piles or haystacks, first check for any movement, and if you see a snake, simply detour around it slowly. If bitten, stay calm, reduce activity, avoid running and drinking alcohol, apply moderate pressure bandaging to the proximal end of the wound, and go as soon as possible to a hospital with the appropriate antivenom for treatment. At present, the population of this snake has declined in some areas, and it is a legally protected wild animal. Catching or trading it without authorization may violate regulations.