Why is relying solely on the 'zebra' pattern potentially misleading when identifying a Zebra Cobra?

Because a significant portion of the population, particularly adults, is a uniform, shiny black or dark brown color

Although the common name suggests a distinct striped pattern, the reality of the Zebra Cobra's appearance is far more varied. A significant segment of the population, especially mature adults inhabiting certain regions, may completely lack visible banding. Instead, these individuals present as a uniform, shiny black or dark brown. This divergence from the expected striping means that an observer cannot assume the presence of high-contrast bands; the uniform dark pigmentation is an equally valid physical presentation of *Naja nigricincta*, underscoring the need to look for other consistent physical identifiers like scale sheen.