Top 10 Venomous Snakes in Australia
S.No |
Venomous Snakes |
Species Name |
|
1 |
Inland Taipan |
Oxyuranus Microlepidotus |
|
2 |
Eastern Brown Snake |
Pseudonaja Textilis |
|
3 |
Coastal Taipan Snake |
Oxyuranus Scutellatus |
|
4 |
Mainland Tiger Snake |
Notechis Scutatus |
|
5 |
Common Death Adder |
Acanthophis Antarcticus |
|
6 |
Western Brown Snake |
Pseudonaja Nuchalis |
|
7 |
Mulga Snake |
Pseudechis Australis |
|
8 |
Lowland Copperhead |
Austrelaps Superbus |
|
9 |
Red-Bellied Black Snake |
Pseudechis Porphyriacus |
|
10 |
Small-Eyed Snake |
Cryptophis Nigrescens |
Venomous Snakes in Australia
Australia is renowned for its diverse and dangerous wildlife, particularly when it comes to venomous snakes. With over 170 species of land snakes, about 100 of which are venomous, Australia is home to some of the world’s most venomous snakes. In fact, 85% of the world’s most venomous snakes can be found in Australia. These snakes pose a significant threat due to their highly potent venom, which can induce life-threatening symptoms or even cause death in humans. From the inland taipan, the most venomous snake in the world, to the eastern brown snake and the coastal taipan, Australia’s venomous snakes command attention and respect. It is crucial to exercise caution and seek immediate medical attention in the event of a snakebite in Australia.
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1. Inland Taipan (Oxyuranus Microlepidotus)
The Inland Taipan, also known as the “fierce snake,” is the most venomous snake in Australia and the world. Endemic to the semi-arid regions of central east Australia, this snake possesses an extremely toxic venom. It averages approximately 5.9 feet in length and has a dark tan appearance. The Inland Taipan is known for its incredible speed and agility, attacking with remarkable accuracy when provoked. Its venom is highly potent, considered to be the most potent of any terrestrial snake in the world. A single bite from an Inland Taipan contains enough venom to kill at least 100 fully-grown humans. The venom is neurotoxic, causing paralysis and respiratory failure if left untreated. Despite its fearsome reputation, the Inland Taipan is typically elusive and avoids human encounters.
2. Eastern Brown Snake (Pseudonaja Textilis)
The Eastern Brown Snake is a highly venomous land snake found along the east coast of Australia. It is one of the deadliest snakes in the world and is responsible for approximately 60% of human snake-bite deaths in Australia. The Eastern Brown Snake has a slender body build and can grow up to 7 feet in length. Its coloration varies from pale brown to dark brown, often with orange or grey splotches, and a pale cream-yellow underside. Although its appearance may seem unassuming, this snake possesses potent venom that affects the nervous system and blood clotting. Bites from the Eastern Brown Snake can cause symptoms such as paralysis, renal failure, and cardiac arrest. Due to its highly venomous nature, the Eastern Brown Snake is classified as a snake of medical importance by the World Health Organization.
3. Coastal Taipan Snake (Oxyuranus Scutellatus)
The Coastal Taipan is the second-longest venomous snake in Australia, after the King Brown Snake. It can grow up to approximately 6.6 feet in length, with some individuals reaching up to 9.5 feet. Found along the eastern coast of Australia, this snake is known for its aggression and dangerous venom. The Coastal Taipan is considered the third most venomous terrestrial snake in Australia, following the Inland Taipan and Eastern Brown Snake. Its venom has an average yield of 120mg, with some specimens capable of producing up to 400mg. The venom contains potent neurotoxins that can cause paralysis and respiratory failure. Due to its aggressive nature and potent venom, the Coastal Taipan is classified as a snake of medical importance by the World Health Organization. Encounters with this snake should be avoided, and immediate medical attention is necessary if bitten.
4. Mainland Tiger Snake (Notechis Scutatus)
The Mainland Tiger Snake, scientifically known as Notechis scutatus, is a highly venomous snake species found in southern Australia and Tasmania. It gets its name from the distinctive black and yellow bands on its body, resembling the pattern of a tiger. When threatened, the Mainland Tiger Snake adopts a classic defensive posture by flattening its body and raising its head above the ground. This behavior serves as a warning to potential predators or threats.
Mainland Tiger Snakes are equipped with potent venom, making them potentially fatal to humans. They are responsible for approximately 17% of identified snakebite victims in Australia. These snakes are commonly found in coastal regions near wetlands, creeks, dams, and watercourses. While they prefer to avoid human encounters, Mainland Tiger Snakes may become aggressive and bite when provoked. It is essential to exercise caution and give these snakes a wide berth if encountered in their natural habitat.
5. Common Death Adder (Acanthophis Antarcticus)
The Common Death Adder, scientifically known as Acanthophis antarcticus, is one of the most venomous land snakes found in Australia. This snake is known for its lethal strike and high venom potency. Despite its broad and short body, resembling a viper, the Common Death Adder possesses the longest fangs of any venomous snake in Australia, measuring around 6.22 mm (0.24 in) on average. Its venom contains powerful neurotoxins that can rapidly immobilize and potentially kill its prey.
Found in various regions of northern, southern, and western Australia, the Common Death Adder is responsible for a significant number of snakebite deaths in the country. Its venom can cause paralysis and other severe symptoms, leading to death within a few hours if left untreated. Despite its highly venomous nature, the Common Death Adder is generally not aggressive towards humans. However, it should be approached with extreme caution and avoided if encountered in the wild to prevent any potential accidents.
6. Western Brown Snake (Pseudonaja Nuchalis)
The Western Brown Snake, scientifically known as Pseudonaja nuchalis, is a venomous snake species native to the northern regions of Australia. Despite being considered non-aggressive, the Western Brown Snake is highly dangerous and can deliver a toxic bite. These snakes are usually found hiding in crevices and under rocks, making them difficult to detect and potentially increasing the risk of accidental encounters.
The bite of the Western Brown Snake is highly toxic and has been known to cause human fatalities. Its venom contains potent neurotoxins that can affect the nervous system and other vital organs. Although it prefers to avoid confrontation, if threatened or provoked, the Western Brown Snake will defend itself and deliver a venomous bite. Due to its potential danger, it is crucial to exercise caution and seek immediate medical attention in the event of a bite from a Western Brown Snake.
7. Mulga Snake (Pseudechis Australis)
The Mulga snake, also known as the king brown snake, is a venomous snake species endemic to western, northern, and central Australia. It is a large snake, growing up to 2.5 meters (8.2 feet) in length. Despite its size, it is generally considered less aggressive compared to other venomous snakes. The Mulga snake’s venom is not as potent as some of Australia’s other venomous snakes, but it can still be dangerous. A bite from a Mulga snake can cause muscle paralysis, extensive pain, and swelling at the bite site. In rare cases, fatalities have been recorded. The venomous bite can deliver a substantial amount of venom, with an average of 180 mg in one bite from a large king brown snake. Due to their habitat range and potentially harmful bite, caution should be exercised when encountering Mulga snakes in their natural habitat.
8. Lowland Copperhead (Austrelaps Superbus)
The Lowland Copperhead is a venomous snake found in southeastern Australia, including regions with colder climates where most other snakes would struggle to survive. They prefer to inhabit low vegetation areas near water bodies, where they can prey on frogs, lizards, and other snakes. Despite their venomous nature, Lowland Copperheads generally try to avoid human encounters. However, if provoked, they can become defensive and bite. The venom of the Lowland Copperhead contains both neurotoxic and hemotoxic components, which can have severe effects on the nervous system and blood. A single bite from a Lowland Copperhead is enough to kill an adult human if immediate medical assistance is not provided. It is essential to exercise caution and respect their natural habitat to avoid any potential encounters.
9. Red-Bellied Black Snake (Pseudechis Porphyriacus)
The Red-Bellied Black Snake is a highly venomous snake commonly found along the east coast of Australia. It gets its name from its glossy black top body, bright red or orange flanks, and duller red belly. Despite its reputation as one of the most dangerous snakes in Australia, it is known to be non-aggressive and will generally retreat from human encounters. However, if provoked or threatened, it can deliver a venomous bite. The venom of the Red-Bellied Black Snake is potent, although it is considered less venomous compared to other Australian elapid snakes. While bites from this snake account for approximately 16% of recorded identifiable snakebite victims in Australia, no deaths have been recorded so far. Nevertheless, caution should be exercised and medical attention sought in the event of a bite.
10. Small-Eyed Snake (Cryptophis Nigrescens)
The Small-Eyed Snake is a venomous species endemic to eastern Australia, ranging from the southern Cape York Peninsula to Victoria. It is named after its small, dark-colored eyes and slightly flattened head. Despite its small size, this snake is considered dangerous due to its venom, which contains strong myotoxins. A bite from a Small-Eyed Snake can result in the destruction of muscle tissues, even days after the initial bite. Prompt first aid and urgent medical attention should be sought in the event of a bite. While the Small-Eyed Snake is venomous, it typically avoids confrontation and prefers to retreat when encountering humans. However, it is important to exercise caution and give these snakes their space in their natural habitat to minimize the risk of an encounter and potential bite.
What Are the Characteristics of Venomous Snakes in Australia?
1. Inland Taipan:
The Inland Taipan, also known as the “fierce snake,” is the most venomous snake in Australia and the world. It has a slender body and an average length of approximately 1.8 meters (5.9 feet). The coloration of the Inland Taipan can vary from light tan to dark brown. It is known for its incredibly potent venom, which contains neurotoxins and procoagulants. Its venom is capable of causing rapid paralysis and can be fatal if not treated promptly. Despite its venomous nature, the Inland Taipan is generally shy and avoids human contact whenever possible.
2. Eastern Brown Snake:
The Eastern Brown Snake is one of the deadliest land snakes in Australia and the world. It has a slender body with a length that can reach up to 2.1 meters (7 feet). The coloration of the Eastern Brown Snake varies, ranging from light brown to dark brown or black. It is highly venomous and possesses a potent neurotoxic venom. The bite of the Eastern Brown Snake can cause paralysis, internal bleeding, and organ failure. It is responsible for the majority of snakebite deaths in Australia. This snake is considered highly alert and defensive, and caution should be exercised when encountering it.
3. Coastal Taipan Snake:
The Coastal Taipan Snake, also known as the “common taipan,” is the third-most venomous terrestrial snake in Australia. It can grow up to approximately 2 meters (6.6 feet) in length, with some individuals reaching 2.9 meters (9.5 feet). The Coastal Taipan has a slender body and a range of color variations, from light brown to dark olive or black. Its venom is highly potent and primarily neurotoxic. A bite from a Coastal Taipan can lead to symptoms such as paralysis, difficulty breathing, and potentially death if not treated promptly. This snake is known for its aggressive behavior and should be approached with extreme caution.
4. Mainland Tiger Snake:
The Mainland Tiger Snake is a highly venomous snake found in southern Australia and Tasmania. It has distinctive black and yellow bands on its body, resembling the pattern of a tiger, hence its name. The Mainland Tiger Snake can grow up to 1.2 meters (4 feet) in length. Its venom is potent and contains a mixture of neurotoxins, coagulants, and myotoxins. A bite from this snake can cause symptoms such as pain, swelling, and potential blood clotting disorders. While the Mainland Tiger Snake can be aggressive when threatened, it generally prefers to retreat rather than engage in confrontation.
5. Common Death Adder:
The Common Death Adder is a venomous snake found in northern, southern, and western parts of Australia. It has a distinctive triangular-shaped head and a stout body. The Common Death Adder’s coloration can vary, with shades of brown, gray, and red. It is known for its ambush hunting behavior, using its tail as a lure to attract prey. The venom of the Common Death Adder is highly potent and primarily neurotoxic. Its bite can cause paralysis, respiratory failure, and potentially death if left untreated. While the Common Death Adder can be relatively sluggish, it can strike with incredible speed when provoked or disturbed.
6. Western Brown Snake:
The Western Brown Snake, also known as the Gwadar, is a highly venomous snake species found across northern Australia. It has a slender body and can reach lengths of up to 1.5 meters (4.9 feet). The Western Brown Snake’s coloration can vary, ranging from pale brown to dark brown. It possesses a potent venom that is primarily neurotoxic, affecting the nervous system of its prey. While the Western Brown Snake is generally considered non-aggressive, it can become defensive and deliver a venomous bite if threatened. It is often found hiding in crevices or under rocks.
7. Mulga Snake:
The Mulga Snake, also known as the King Brown Snake, is a venomous species native to western, northern, and central Australia. It is a large snake that can grow up to 2.5 meters (8.2 feet) in length. The Mulga Snake has a robust body and a relatively small head. Its coloration ranges from pale brown to dark brown or black, with lighter bands across its body. The venom of the Mulga Snake is not as potent as some of Australia’s other venomous snakes, but it can still cause muscle paralysis, pain, and swelling at the bite site. While generally non-aggressive, the Mulga Snake will defend itself if threatened.
8. Lowland Copperhead:
The Lowland Copperhead is a venomous snake species found in southeastern Australia. It has a medium-sized body and can reach lengths of up to 1.5 meters (4.9 feet). The Lowland Copperhead’s coloration varies from pale brown to dark brown, often with reddish or coppery tones. Its venom contains both neurotoxic and hemotoxic components. A bite from a Lowland Copperhead can lead to symptoms such as pain, swelling, and potential blood clotting disorders. While the Lowland Copperhead generally prefers to avoid human encounters, it can become aggressive and deliver a venomous bite if provoked.
9. Red-Bellied Black Snake:
The Red-Bellied Black Snake is a venomous snake species commonly found along the east coast of Australia. It has a medium-sized body and can grow up to 2 meters (6.6 feet) in length. The Red-Bellied Black Snake is known for its glossy black top body, bright red or orange flanks, and duller red belly. Its venom is potent, although less venomous compared to other Australian elapid snakes. A bite from a Red-Bellied Black Snake can cause pain, swelling, and potential blood clotting disorders. While generally non-aggressive, this snake will defend itself if provoked or threatened.
10. Small-Eyed Snake:
The Small-Eyed Snake, also known as the Swamp Snake, is a venomous snake species endemic to eastern Australia. It has a slender body and small, dark-colored eyes, which give it its name. The Small-Eyed Snake’s coloration varies, ranging from gray to dark brown or black. Its venom contains myotoxins that can cause damage to muscle tissues. A bite from a Small-Eyed Snake can result in muscle pain, swelling, and potential complications if left untreated. While generally non-aggressive, this snake will bite if handled or disturbed. It is important to exercise caution and seek medical attention in the event of a bite.
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