Most Intelligent Reptiles

Reptiles are one of the oldest classes of animals living today, originating 310 to 320 million years ago during the Carboniferous period. Reptiles are found on every continent other than Antarctica. Although reptiles are not commonly considered intelligent animals, they can actually be quite smart. Just as animal intelligence varies in other classes of animals, there are reptiles that display more intelligence than others.

  1. The King Cobra

    • The King cobra is among the smartest reptiles.

      The king cobra, Ophiophagus hannah, is a species of venomous snake that is found in Southeast Asia and India. They are the world's longest venomous snake, attaining lengths of over 14 feet. Keepers who have maintained this species in captivity have often say that they are amongst the most intelligent reptiles that they have experienced. King cobras can recognize their keeper from strangers, and have a sense of awareness that is uncommon in snakes. They are the only species of snake known to build a nest for their eggs.

    The Komodo Dragon

    • The Komodo dragon, Varanus komodoensis, is a species of lizard that is found in Komodo and the Lesser Sunda Islands. They are the heaviest living species of lizard, reaching lengths of up to 10 feet and weighing up to 200 lbs. In their native habitat, some Komodo dragons have learned that humans will provide food for them, and will inhabit areas where tourists frequently feed the dragons. Some Komodo dragons in captivity have learned to come when their name is called.

    The Reticulated Python

    • The reticulated python, Python reticulatus, is the world's longest snake. The world record length of this species is nearly 30 feet. They are the most widespread species of python, inhabiting many islands of Southeast Asia and the Philippines. This species is a common snake to keep in captivity among reptile enthusiasts, and keepers often notice that the reticulated python exhibits a higher level of intelligence than most snakes. This python can identify its keeper from strangers, and has a good sense of awareness.

    The Nile Monitor

    • The Nile monitor, Varanus niloticus, is a large lizard that inhabits most of Africa. This species can attain lengths of up to 9 feet, while 5 to 7 feet is more common. This species has been observed to cooperate with one another while hunting in the wild. For example, one monitor will distract a crocodile from its nest, while the other raids the nest and consumes the eggs. In captivity, the Nile monitor recognizes its keeper and has a distinct personality.