The Most Venomous Snakes in Australia: From the Inland Taipan to the Australian Eastern Brown Snake
Australia’s Venomous Snakes Overview
Australia is home to some of the world’s most venomous snakes, including the inland taipan, eastern brown snake, coastal taipan, gwardar, and mulga snake.
These snakes play a vital role in controlling rodent populations, though their presence requires safety precautions. Venom toxicity varies among species, with neurotoxins and coagulants common in many.
In case of a bite, staying calm, applying a pressure immobilization bandage, and seeking immediate medical attention are crucial. Understanding each species’ characteristics is essential for effective treatment and antivenom development.
Table of Contents
Get ready to explore Australia’s most venomous snakes. Our country is filled with deadly serpents, both on land and sea snakes. From the fierce inland taipan to the sneaky common death adder, these deadly snakes are very dangerous.
In this guide, we’ll answer the question “What are the top 10 most venomous snakes in Australia?” You’ll learn about their unique traits and where they live. We’ll also teach you how to stay safe if you meet one. Plus, we’ll dive into the science behind snake venom and why Aussie snakes are so deadly.
So get ready for an exciting journey through Australia’s venomous snake world!
Key Takeaways
- Australia is home to some of the world’s most venomous snakes
- The inland taipan tops the list as the most venomous snake in Australia
- Snake venom composition varies among species
- Proper safety measures are crucial when in snake-prone areas
- Australian snakes play a vital role in the ecosystem
- Prompt first aid is essential for snake bite survival
An Introduction to Australia's Species of Venomous Snakes
Australia is home to some of the world’s deadliest snakes. The continent’s unique environment has shaped these reptiles into formidable predators. Australian snakes have evolved potent venoms that make them stand out among their global counterparts.
The Unique Venom Potency of Australian Snakes
Venomous snakes in Australia possess remarkably potent toxins. This adaptation is likely due to the country’s isolated evolution and diverse prey. The inland taipan, for instance, carries venom so powerful that a single bite could potentially kill 100 adults.
Understanding Snake Venom and Its Effects
Snake venom is a complex mixture of proteins and enzymes. It can affect the nervous system, blood, or tissue. Australian snake venom often targets the blood, causing coagulation disorders. This makes bites from these snakes particularly dangerous if not treated promptly.
The Role of Snakes in Australian Ecosystems
Despite their fearsome reputation, Australia’s snakes play a crucial role in maintaining ecological balance. They control rodent populations and serve as prey for other animals. Understanding their importance can foster a more balanced view of these often misunderstood creatures.
Snake Species | Venom Type | Primary Effect |
Inland Taipans | Neurotoxic, Hemotoxic | Paralysis, Blood Clotting |
Eastern Brown Snake | Neurotoxic, Coagulant | Paralysis, Uncontrolled Bleeding |
Tiger Snake | Neurotoxic, Myotoxic | Paralysis, Muscle Damage |
#1 The Inland Taipan: Australia's Most Venomous Snake
What is the most venomous snake in Australia? The inland taipan, also known as the fierce snake, is the most venomous snake globally. It lives in Australia’s dry areas. Its toxic venom is so strong, it can kill up to 100 men with one bite, making it one of the deadliest snakes.
This snake’s colour changes with the seasons. It turns darker in winter to keep warm and lighter in summer to stay cool. This helps it survive in the harsh outback.
Despite being deadly, the inland taipan is shy. It only attacks when it feels threatened. If you see one, stay calm and slowly move away. Most snake bites happen when people try to catch or kill them.
Characteristic | Inland Taipan |
Scientific Name | Oxyuranus microlepidotus |
Average Length | 1.8 to 2.5 metres |
Venom Potency | Highest of all land snakes |
Habitat | Arid and semi-arid regions of central Australia |
Diet | Small mammals, particularly rats and mice |
If bitten by a snake, get medical help right away. The inland taipan’s venom can cause paralysis and blood clotting problems. Antivenom is available, but acting fast is key. Always be cautious and respectful around these amazing creatures from a safe distance.
#2 Eastern Brown Snake: A Common and Lethal Threat
The eastern brown snake is one of Australia’s most dangerous snakes. Found primarily in New South Wales, it causes more deaths than any other snake in the country. Its venom is very potent, making it a big worry for Australians.
Identification and Habitat
Eastern brown snakes can be pale brown to almost black, showcasing the diverse coloration found in this group of snakes. They are slender and can reach up to 2 metres long. These snakes live in many places across eastern Australia, like grasslands, woodlands, and cities.
Behaviour and Venom Potency
Eastern brown snakes are fast and agile. They become very defensive when they feel threatened. Their venom can cause blood to clot quickly and lead to paralysis. A bite from this snake can be deadly if not treated right away.
First Aid for Eastern Brown Snake Bites
If you get bitten by an eastern brown snake, here’s what to do:
- Keep the victim calm and still
- Apply a pressure immobilisation bandage
- Call emergency services immediately
Do not wash the bite site or try to suck out the venom
Feature | Eastern Brown Snake |
Average Length | 1.5 – 2 metres |
Venom Type | Neurotoxic and coagulant |
Bite Symptoms | Headache, nausea, abdominal pain, paralysis |
Time to Seek Treatment | Immediately |
#3 Coastal Taipan: The Long-Fanged Killer
The coastal taipan is a dangerous venomous snake found in Australia. It lives along the northern and eastern coasts, but also extends its range into South Australia. This snake is known for its deadly bite and long fangs. In Queensland, you can find them in both tropical and temperate areas.
Coastal taipans have the longest fangs of any snake in Australia, reaching up to 13mm. Their venom is very potent and can cause serious symptoms in humans. The venom affects the nervous system and blood, so getting medical help quickly is important after a bite.
Despite being deadly, coastal taipans help control rodent populations. They are generally shy and try to avoid people. If you see one, stay calm and slowly back away. Remember, they only attack when they feel threatened.
Feature | Coastal Taipan |
Average Length | 2-3 metres |
Fang Length | Up to 13mm |
Main Habitat | Coastal regions of northern and eastern Australia |
Primary Diet | Rodents |
If you live in or visit coastal areas of Queensland or other parts of northern and eastern Australia, be aware of coastal taipans. While they are rare, knowing how to spot them and stay safe is wise.
#4 The Gwardar: Australia's Western Brown Snake
The Western Brown Snake, scientifically known as Pseudonaja mengdeni, is a highly venomous elapid native to Australia. Commonly called the gwardar, this snake inhabits a vast range across the continent’s arid and semi-arid regions. With its slender body and narrow head, the gwardar can grow up to two metres in length, though it averages around 1.2 metres. Its colouration is highly variable, ranging from light brown to almost black, with some specimens sporting a distinctive black head or broad bands along their body.
Habitat and Behaviour
Gwardars thrive in diverse environments, from woodlands and grasslands to spinifex deserts and croplands. They are primarily diurnal hunters, though they may forage at night during hot weather. These snakes feed on a variety of prey, including lizards, small mammals, and even other snakes. While generally cautious and inclined to retreat when encountered, gwardars can defend themselves fiercely if cornered, striking rapidly with their short but potent fangs.
Venom and Human Interaction
The gwardar’s venom is highly toxic, containing potent neurotoxins and procoagulants that can cause severe symptoms and potentially death. Despite their dangerous bite, these snakes play a crucial role in controlling pest populations in rural areas. When encountered in the wild, it is advisable to keep a safe distance and allow the snake to move away on its own. Professional snake handlers should be contacted for safe removal if a gwardar is found in residential areas
#5 Mainland Tiger Snake: Banded Beauty with a Deadly Bite
The tiger snake is a venomous snake found in Australia. It’s known for its banded look and strong venom. These snakes are found all over the country, making them a big worry for Australians.
Distribution Across Australia
Tiger snakes live in many different places in Australia. You can find them by the coast, in wetlands, and in grasslands. The mainland tiger snake is common in southern and eastern Australia, including Tasmania.
Venom Composition and Effects
Tiger snake venom is very toxic and can cause serious symptoms in humans. It has neurotoxins and coagulants. If bitten, you might feel pain, sweat a lot, and have trouble breathing. If you think you’ve been bitten by a tiger snake, get medical help right away.
Tiger Snake Subspecies
There are several tiger snake subspecies in Australia, each living in its own special place:
- Eastern tiger snake: Found in southeastern Australia
- Western tiger snake: Native to southwestern Australia
- Chappell Island tiger snake: Inhabits Bass Strait islands
- King Island tiger snake: Located on King Island in Tasmania
These subspecies differ in size and colour, but all have strong venom. Knowing about the different tiger snake types helps you spot and stay away from them in their natural homes.
#6 Mulga Snake (King Brown): The Heaviest Venomous Snake
The mulga snake, also known as the king brown snake, is the heaviest venomous snake in Australia. It can grow up to 3 metres long and weigh over 6 kilograms. You can find it across much of the continent.
This snake isn’t actually brown. It’s part of the black snake family and can be dark brown to olive green. You’ll see them in Australia’s arid and semi-arid areas, like deserts and grasslands.
The mulga snake’s venom is special. It’s not as toxic as some, but it can still cause serious problems if not treated. Its venom affects the nervous system and muscles.
In Aboriginal culture, the mulga snake is very important. Many stories and legends from the Dreamtime feature this snake. It shows its role in the Australian landscape.
Characteristic | Mulga Snake (King Brown) |
Scientific Name | Pseudechis australis |
Average Length | 2.5 – 3 metres |
Weight | Up to 6 kilograms |
Venom Type | Neurotoxic and myotoxic |
Habitat | Arid and semi-arid regions of Australia |
#7 The Lowland Copperhead: Australia's Cool Climate Killer
The lowland copperhead, scientifically known as Austrelaps Superbus, is a venomous snake species found in southeastern Australia, including Tasmania. Despite its name, this elapid is not related to the American copperhead and can vary greatly in colour, ranging from coppery mid-brown to yellowish, reddish, grey, or even black. Growing to an average length of 1 to 1.5 metres, these snakes are well-adapted to cooler climates and are often active even in chilly weather.
Habitat and Hunting Grounds
Lowland copperheads prefer low-lying areas near water bodies, such as swamps, marshes, and stream-sides. They can also be found in sand dunes with tussock grass, heathlands, woodlands, and sclerophyll forests. These adaptable reptiles have shown a tolerance for habitat alteration, allowing them to survive in some suburban areas of South Australia and Western Australia. In their preferred habitats, lowland copperheads hunt primarily for ectothermic prey, including lizards, frogs, and occasionally other snakes.
Venom and Human Interaction
While the lowland copperhead should be considered potentially dangerous, it is generally not aggressive towards humans. Its venom contains postsynaptic neurotoxins, which can cause temporary tissue damage in the bite area. Although bites from this species are rare, they can be fatal if left untreated. It is always advisable to seek immediate medical attention if bitten by any snake, including the lowland copperhead
#8 The Common Death Adder: Australia's Master of Camouflage
The death adder is a venomous snake known for its exceptional camouflage skills. It blends seamlessly into its surroundings. This makes it a formidable predator in Australia’s diverse landscapes.
Unique Hunting Techniques
The death adder uses a sit-and-wait strategy. It buries itself in leaf litter or sand, leaving only its tail tip visible. This tail acts as a lure, mimicking a worm to attract prey.
When an unsuspecting animal approaches, the death adder strikes with lightning speed.
Venom Characteristics
Death adder snake venom is highly toxic. It contains a mix of neurotoxins and myotoxins. These can cause paralysis and muscle damage.
The venom’s potency makes this species one of Australia’s most dangerous snakes. Quick medical treatment is crucial if bitten.
Conservation Status
Despite their fearsome reputation, death adders face conservation challenges. Habitat loss and introduced predators threaten their populations. Conservation efforts focus on preserving their natural habitats.
They also aim to educate the public about these unique snakes.
Characteristic | Death Adder |
Average Length | 70-100 cm |
Venom Type | Neurotoxic and Myotoxic |
Hunting Method | Ambush Predator |
Conservation Status | Vulnerable in some regions |
Habitat | Forests, Grasslands, Desert |
#9 Red-Bellied Black Snake: Venomous but Less Aggressive
The red-bellied black snake is a stunning sight in Australia’s bushland. These black snakes have a vibrant red underbelly, making them easy to spot. They are venomous but not as aggressive as some snakes.
You’ll find these snakes near water sources across eastern Australia. They love wetlands, creeks, and dams. Red-bellied black snakes are excellent swimmers and often hunt in water.
Despite being venomous, these snakes rarely cause fatal bites. They prefer to flee rather than fight. If cornered, they’ll flatten their necks to appear larger. This is your cue to back away slowly.
Their venom is potent but less deadly than other Australian snakes. A bite can cause severe pain, swelling, and bleeding. Seek medical help immediately if bitten.
Red-bellied black snakes play a crucial role in controlling frog and rodent populations. They’re also known to eat other venomous snakes, including the deadly brown snake.
Characteristic | Description |
Length | 1.5 to 2 metres |
Colour | Glossy black with red belly |
Habitat | Wetlands, forests, urban areas |
Diet | Frogs, fish, small mammals |
Venom Potency | Moderate |
Remember, if you spot a red-bellied black snake, give it space. These beautiful creatures are an important part of Australia’s ecosystem. Enjoy them from a safe distance, and you’ll both be happier for it.
#10 The Small-Eyed Snake: Unique and Enigmatic
The small-eyed snake, known scientifically as Cryptophis Nigrescens, is a striking reptile found across Australia. This species features a slender body and smooth scales, typically measuring between 50 to 100 centimetres in length. Its colouration ranges from glossy black to dark brown, often with a lighter underbelly. The name derives from its relatively small head, which can make its eyes appear diminutive, adding to its intriguing appearance.
Habitat and Lifestyle
This snake inhabits various environments along the eastern coast of Australia, including rainforests, wet sclerophyll forests, and even urban areas. As a nocturnal creature, it is most active at night, seeking shelter under logs, rocks, or leaf litter during the day. When threatened, the small-eyed snake may flatten its body and raise its head in defence but generally opts for retreat over confrontation.
Venom and Conservation
Though venomous, the small-eyed snake poses minimal risk to humans due to its shy disposition. Its venom can cause significant symptoms if a bite occurs, primarily affecting blood coagulation. Immediate medical attention is advised in such cases. This snake plays an important role in controlling rodent populations and contributes to the ecological balance within its habitat.
Snake Safety: Preventing and Responding to Snake Encounters
Living in or visiting Australia means you need to know about snake safety. Keep your yard clean and avoid long grass. Wear sturdy boots and long pants when hiking, and always watch where you step.
If you see a snake, stay calm and slowly back away. Don’t try to catch or kill it. Most snake bites happen when people try to handle them. If bitten, call emergency services and use a pressure immobilisation bandage to slow venom spread.
First aid for snake bites includes keeping the victim still and calm. Don’t wash the bite site, as venom traces help identify the snake species. Australian hospitals have antivenom to treat snake bites. Quick action and proper medical care greatly improve outcomes for those bitten by venomous snakes in Australia.
Education is key to snake safety. Learn to identify common venomous snakes in your area and understand their habits. By respecting these creatures and taking proper precautions, you can safely coexist with Australia’s unique and diverse snake population.
FAQs
Why is the inland taipan considered the most venomous snake in the world?
The inland taipan is the most venomous land snake globally. Its venom contains powerful neurotoxins and myotoxins, making it one of the most toxic of all snake venoms. These can cause quick respiratory failure and paralysis, making them one of the most dangerous bites in Australia.
What makes the eastern brown snake so dangerous?
The eastern brown snake is dangerous due to its widespread and aggressive behaviour. Its venom can cause paralysis, bleeding, and kidney failure.
Why are tiger snakes significant in Australia?
Tiger snakes are significant in Australia for their wide distribution and distinctive banded look. Their venom is potent, making them dangerous.
Why is the mulga snake also known as the king brown snake?
The mulga snake, or king brown snake, is the heaviest venomous snake in Australia. Its muscular build earns it the “king” name.
What should you do if bitten by a venomous snake in Australia?
If bitten by a venomous snake, seek immediate medical help. Stay calm and immobilise the area. Use a pressure immobilisation bandage if you can. Call an ambulance or go to the hospital as fast as you can.
