A cockatrice is a mythical creature often depicted as a two-legged dragon or serpent with a rooster's head. It is said to have the ability to kill with its gaze or breath, similar to the basilisk. The cockatrice is often associated with alchemy and folklore, symbolizing danger and transformation. In medieval bestiaries, the cockatrice was believed to be born from an egg laid by a rooster and incubated by a serpent. This unique origin contributed to its fearsome reputation. The creature has appeared in various literary works, including Shakespeare's plays, where it symbolizes treachery and deceit.