Types of Snakes in Australia
Table of Contents
You might think you know about Australian snakes, but there’s more to these fascinating creatures than meets the eye. From the deadly Inland Taipan to the harmless Bandy-Bandy snake, Australia’s diverse snake population is as varied as its landscapes. While you’ve likely heard about the venomous species that call this continent home, you may be surprised to learn about the essential roles non-venomous snakes play in the ecosystem.
As you consider Australia’s reptilian residents, you’ll find that understanding these slithering inhabitants is key to appreciating the country’s unique biodiversity. But what exactly makes Australian snakes so distinctive?
Key Takeaways
- Australia has approximately 170 species of land snakes, with about 100 being venomous.
- Venomous snakes include the Inland Taipan, Eastern Brown Snake, and Coastal Taipan.
- Common non-venomous snakes include the Carpet Python and some species of Brown Snakes.
- Only 12 snake species in Australia are considered potentially lethal to humans.
- Australian snakes inhabit diverse ecosystems, including deserts, rainforests, grasslands, and coastal areas.
Where are the snakes in Australia?
To minimise snake encounters in Australia, you’ll need to understand their habitats and behaviour patterns.
Snakes are found across diverse ecosystems, from arid deserts to tropical rainforests, often seeking shelter in rocky outcrops, fallen logs, and dense vegetation.
How to avoid an encounter with a snake
Found throughout Australia’s diverse ecosystems, snakes inhabit a wide range of habitats from arid deserts to lush rainforests. To avoid encountering a snake, you’ll need to remain vigilant and take precautions when exploring these environments.
When hiking, stick to well-maintained trails and wear closed-toe shoes. Avoid tall grass, dense vegetation, and rock piles where snakes may hide.
If you see a snake, maintain a safe distance and allow it to move away. Don’t attempt to handle or provoke the reptile.
When camping, keep your site clean and free of food scraps that might attract rodents, which are prey for snakes. Use a torch at night to illuminate your path and watch where you step.
In your home, seal gaps and cracks in foundations and walls to prevent snakes from entering. Keep your yard tidy by removing debris and trimming overgrown vegetation.
If you come across a snake in your property, don’t try to capture or kill it. Instead, contact a professional snake removal service to safely relocate the animal.
The main species of snakes in Australia
Australia hosts several highly venomous snake species that demand attention.
You’ll encounter the notorious Taipans, including the Coastal Taipan, alongside the widespread Brown Snakes and distinctive Tiger Snakes.
The Death Adder, with its unique ambush hunting strategy, rounds out this list of Australia’s most significant snake species.
Taipans
Taipans, belonging to the genus Oxyuranus, are highly venomous elapid snakes found in Australia.
You’ll encounter three species: the coastal taipan (O. scutellatus), the inland taipan (O. microlepidotus), and the Central Ranges taipan (O. temporalis).
These snakes typically inhabit grasslands, savannas, and tropical coastal regions, with the inland taipan preferring arid environments in central Australia.
Characteristics
Among the most dangerous and feared snakes in the world, taipans represent a genus of highly venomous elapids native to Australia and New Guinea. They are the most venomous snake in Australia.
You’ll find these venomous snakes in various habitats, from coastal regions to arid inland areas.
Taipans possess long, hollow fangs that deliver potent neurotoxic venom. They’re characterised by their slender build, large eyes, and smooth scales, and their colouration ranges from light olive to dark brown.
Habitats
Three distinct habitats are favored by taipans across Australia. You’ll find these deadly elapids in diverse environments across the continent. Their distribution spans from Western Australia to Eastern Australia, adapting to different habitats.
Habitat | Location | Taipan Species |
Arid regions | Central Australia | Inland Taipan |
Grasslands | Eastern Australia | Coastal Taipan |
Woodlands | Northern Australia | Central Taipan |
Coastal Taipan
The Coastal Taipan (Oxyuranus scutellatus) is a highly venomous elapid snake found in Australia.
You’ll recognise this species by its slender body, light olive to dark brown colouration, and cream-coloured belly.
Coastal Taipans inhabit tropical and subtropical regions along Australia’s northern and eastern coasts, preferring grasslands, forests, and cane fields near water sources.
Characteristics
One of Australia’s most notorious venomous snakes, the Coastal Taipan (Oxyuranus scutellatus), is renowned for its potent neurotoxic venom and aggressive defensive behavior.
Unlike pythons or sea snakes, this elapid species exhibits:
- Slender, muscular body
- Large, angular head
- Pale to dark brown colouration
- Cream to yellow underside
- Average length of 1.5-2 meters
You’ll find these snakes in coastal regions and nearby areas of northern and eastern Australia.
Habitats
While the Coastal Taipan’s physical characteristics make it a formidable predator, its habitat preferences play a key role in its distribution and behavior. You’ll find this species primarily along Australia’s coast, inhabiting various environments:
Habitat Type | Coastal Taipan Presence |
Rainforests | Common |
Grasslands | Frequent |
Cane fields | Abundant |
Woodlands | Occasional |
These snakes adapt well to different land types, but they’re most prevalent near the coast of Australia.
Brown Snakes
Brown snakes, belonging to the genus Pseudonaja, are among Australia’s most dangerous and widespread venomous snakes.
You’ll find these highly adaptable reptiles in diverse habitats across mainland Australia, including grasslands, woodlands, and urban areas.
Western Brown snakes and Eastern Brown snakes are characterised by their slender build, variable colouration ranging from pale brown to almost black, and their extremely potent venom, which primarily affects blood coagulation.
It’s important to note that the King Brown Snake, despite it’s name, is actually a member of the black snake family.
Characteristics
Eastern Brown Snakes (Pseudonaja textilis) are among Australia’s most venomous and widespread snake species.
They’re characterised by:
- Slender build
- Variable colouration (light to dark brown)
- Large eyes with round pupils
- Smooth scales
- Distinctive head shape
You’ll find these elapids in diverse habitats across eastern Australia.
While often confused with tiger snakes or death adders, brown snakes possess unique venom composition and behavior patterns that set them apart.
Habitat
Thriving across diverse landscapes, Eastern Brown Snakes (Pseudonaja textilis) inhabit a wide range of habitats throughout eastern Australia.
You’ll find this highly adaptable land snake species in grasslands, woodlands, and urban areas. They’re comfortable in both arid and wet environments, from coastal regions to inland territories.
Eastern Brown Snakes have successfully colonised various ecosystems, making them one of Australia’s most widespread and encountered venomous snake species.
Tiger Snakes
Tiger snakes (Notechis scutatus) are highly venomous elapids characterised by their distinctive banded patterns and robust build.
You’ll find these snakes primarily in southern Australia, inhabiting diverse ecosystems from coastal regions to grasslands and forests.
Tiger snakes adapt well to various environments, often residing near water sources and in areas with abundant prey such as frogs and small mammals.
Characteristics
Among the most notorious venomous serpents in Australia, Tiger Snakes (Notechis scutatus) stand out for their distinctive banded patterns and potent neurotoxic venom.
You’ll find these highly venomous snakes exhibiting:
- Variable colouration, from olive to black
- Prominent yellow or cream bands
- Robust, muscular bodies
- Average length of 1.2 to 1.8 meters
- Flat, triangular heads
Unlike non-venomous snakes, Tiger Snakes possess potent venom, making them a significant threat to humans.
Habitats
While Tiger Snakes possess formidable adaptations, their distribution is closely tied to specific habitats. You’ll find them primarily along Australia’s southern coast and in Tasmania. They prefer wetlands, grasslands, and woodlands near water sources.
Habitat Type | Tiger Snake Presence |
Wetlands | High |
Grasslands | Moderate |
Woodlands | Moderate |
Deserts | Low |
Australia has around 140 species of snakes, with Tiger Snakes absent from central Australia but present along the east coast.
Death Adder
The Death Adder (Acanthophis spp.) is a highly venomous elapid snake found in Australia.
You’ll recognise this species by its short, stout body, triangular head, and thin tail that often resembles a grub or worm.
Death Adders inhabit a variety of environments, including forests, grasslands, and arid regions across much of mainland Australia and some offshore islands.
Characteristics
Death Adders, belonging to the genus Acanthophis, are among Australia’s most venomous snakes.
You’ll recognise this dangerous Australian snake by its:
- Short, stout body
- Triangular head
- Thin tail resembling a worm
- Large fangs
- Cryptic colouration
These venomous reptiles are ambush predators, lying motionless to lure prey.
They’re known for their rapid strike and potent neurotoxic venom, making them a significant threat to humans.
Habitats
Found across much of Australia, Death Adders inhabit a diverse range of ecosystems.
You’ll encounter these snakes in Australia’s arid deserts, grasslands, and woodlands. They’re also present in coastal heaths and forests.
In the Northern Territory, Death Adders thrive in both tropical and temperate regions.
Unlike species of sea snakes, Death Adders are terrestrial, preferring to ambush prey on land rather than in aquatic environments.
Red Belly Black
The Red-bellied Black Snake (Pseudechis porphyriacus) is a venomous elapid native to eastern Australia.
You’ll recognise this species by its glossy black dorsal scales and bright red ventral scales.
These snakes typically inhabit forests, woodlands, and wetlands near water sources, where they prey on frogs, reptiles, and small mammals.
Characteristics
Among Australia’s most recognisable venomous snakes, the Red-bellied Black Snake (Pseudechis porphyriacus) stands out for its distinctive colouration and widespread distribution.
This species exhibits several key characteristics:
- Glossy black dorsal scales
- Bright red to pink ventral scales
- Average length of 1.5 to 2 meters
- Flattened head with a blunt snout
- Relatively mild venom compared to other Australian elapids
Habitats
Red-bellied Black Snakes thrive in diverse habitats across eastern Australia. You’ll find them in:
Habitat Type | Location | Frequency |
Wetlands | NSW | Common |
Woodlands | SA | Occasional |
Grasslands | East | Rare |
These snakes of Australia adapt well to various environments. In New South Wales, they’re often spotted near water bodies, while in South Australia, you might encounter them in drier regions.
Rough Scaled Snake
The Rough Scaled Snake (Tropidechis carinatus) is a venomous elapid species native to eastern Australia.
You’ll find this snake in coastal and near-coastal habitats, including rainforests, wet sclerophyll forests, and heathlands from southeast Queensland to northeast New South Wales.
Its distinctive features include keeled scales, similar but distinct from the Keelback snake. It also has a slender body reaching up to 1 meter in length, and a variable coloration ranging from olive-brown to dark grey with a paler underside.
Characteristics
Rough Scaled Snakes (Tropidechis carinatus) are venomous elapids native to eastern Australia. Among the 140 species of land snake in Australia, they’re considered one of the dangerous snakes.
You’ll recognise them by:
- Olive to dark brown coloration
- Distinct rough, keeled scales
- Average length of 0.7-1 meter
- Large, prominent eyes
- Highly neurotoxic venom
Their habitat includes rainforests and wet sclerophyll forests along the east coast.
Habitats
While Rough Scaled Snakes possess distinctive physical traits, their habitat preferences are equally specific. You’ll find these serpents in northern Australia’s tropical rainforests and wet sclerophyll forests. They’re among the around 140 species of land snakes in Australia, adapted to various ecosystems.
Habitat Type | Characteristics |
Rainforest | Dense, humid |
Wet forest | Moist, shaded |
Streams | Rocky, flowing |
Leaf litter | Damp, decaying |
Spotted Black or Blue Snake
The Spotted Black or Blue Snake, more commonly and correctly known as the Blue-Bellied Black Snake (Pseudechis guttatus) is a venomous elapid species found in eastern Australia.
You’ll recognise this snake by its distinctive coloration, which ranges from black with white or cream spots to a uniform blue-gray.
These snakes primarily inhabit forested areas, woodlands, and heathlands along the coast and ranges of Queensland and New South Wales.
Characteristics
Spotted Black Snakes, scientifically known as Pseudechis guttatus, are a venomous species native to eastern Australia.
They’re often confused with other elapids like the eastern brown snake, red-bellied black snake, and inland taipan.
Key characteristics include:
- Dark body with pale spots
- Average length of 1.5-2 metres
- Neurotoxic and myotoxic venom
- Primarily nocturnal habits
- Prefer woodland and forest habitats
You’ll find these snakes in eastern Queensland and New South Wales.
Habitats
While Spotted Black Snakes have distinct physical characteristics, their habitat preferences play a significant role in their distribution and behavior.
You’ll find these native Australian snakes in diverse environments, from grasslands to woodlands. Unlike the arboreal green tree snake or the adaptable carpet python, Spotted Black Snakes prefer terrestrial habitats.
They’re often encountered near water sources, rocky outcrops, and fallen logs, which provide shelter and hunting opportunities.
Precautions to take
When encountering snakes in Australia, you’ll need to follow specific safety protocols.
Observe essential rules like maintaining a safe distance, avoiding sudden movements, and never attempting to handle or provoke a snake.
In the event of a snake encounter, remain calm, back away slowly, and contact local wildlife authorities or emergency services if you’re in immediate danger.
Rules to observe
Taking proper precautions is vital when encountering snakes in Australia. When you find a snake, maintain a safe distance and avoid provoking it. Don’t attempt to remove the snake yourself; instead, contact a licensed snake catcher. Remember, most bites occur when people try to handle or kill snakes.
Observe these rules to guarantee your safety and the snake’s well-being:
- Remain calm and still if you encounter a snake
- Slowly back away, giving the snake space to retreat
- Wear appropriate footwear and long pants in snake-prone areas
- Use a flashlight when walking at night
- Keep your surroundings clear of debris and tall grass
In the event of a snake bite, apply a pressure immobilisation bandage and seek immediate medical attention. Don’t wash the bite site, as venom residue can aid in identification. Always carry a first aid kit and snake bite bandage when in snake habitats.
Educate yourself on local snake species and their behaviors. Remember, snakes play vital roles in ecosystems and should be respected, not feared. By following these rules, you can coexist safely with Australia’s diverse snake population.
What to do in the event of an encounter with a snake?
Several critical precautions should be taken when encountering a snake in Australia. To begin with, remain calm and avoid sudden movements. Many types of dangerous snakes in Australia are venomous, but they’d rather slither away than confront humans.
Slowly back away from the snake, maintaining a safe distance of at least 5 meters.
Don’t attempt to handle, capture, or kill the snake. This increases your risk of being bitten. Instead, alert others in the area about the snake’s presence. If you’re in a populated area, contact local wildlife authorities for assistance.
If you’re hiking or in the bush, wear sturdy boots and long pants for protection. Carry a first aid kit and a pressure immobilisation bandage in case of a bite.
Should a bite occur, immediately call emergency services and apply the pressure immobilisation technique.
What to do in case of bite
In the event of a snake bite, immediate and correct action is essential for survival. Australia is home to many types of deadly snakes with toxic venom, making it vital to act swiftly and correctly. Your primary goal is to slow the spread of venom in the body while seeking urgent medical attention.
Follow these steps if you or someone nearby is bitten by a snake:
- Remain calm and immobilise the affected limb
- Apply a pressure immobilisation bandage to the bite area
- Call emergency services (000) immediately
- Don’t attempt to catch or kill the snake
- Avoid washing the bite site, as venom residue can help identify the snake species
It’s important to note that traditional first aid methods like tourniquets or sucking out the venom are ineffective and potentially harmful. Instead, focus on keeping the patient still and calm while waiting for professional medical help.
Symptoms of envenomation can vary depending on the snake species, but may include nausea, difficulty breathing, and paralysis. Time is critical, so make sure you’re familiar with these steps before venturing into snake-prone areas.
Some statistics and numbers
While understanding snake bite first aid is essential, it’s equally important to grasp the statistical landscape of snake encounters and bites in Australia.
You’ll find approximately 170 species of land snakes in the country, with about 100 of these being venomous. However, only about 12 species are potentially lethal to humans.
On average, Australia records around 3,000 snake bites per year. Of these, roughly 300 require antivenom treatment, and sadly, about two to three cases result in fatalities.
The Eastern Brown Snake is responsible for about 60% of snake bite deaths in Australia, followed by the Tiger Snake at 17%.
There are only three species of snake in Tasmania. These include the tiger snake and the Lowland Copperhead snake.
You’re more likely to encounter snakes during the warmer months, from October to April.
Statistically, most bites occur on the lower limbs, with 96% of fatal bites happening when people attempt to catch or kill snakes.
There are three species of ‘crowned’ snakes in Australia: the White-Crowned, Dwarf-Crowned, and the Golden-Crowned.
It’s worth noting that despite Australia’s reputation for dangerous wildlife, you’re considerably more likely to die from a horse riding accident or drowning than from a snake bite.
Unusual facts about Snakes
Beyond their reputation as dangerous creatures, Australian snakes possess several intriguing characteristics. You might be surprised to learn that some species, like the Burton’s legless lizard, are actually legless lizards mistaken for snakes. These reptiles have evolved to lose their limbs but retain vestigial hind leg flaps.
Australian snakes have adapted unique ways to detect prey and predators. They can sense vibrations from the ground through their jawbones, allowing them to perceive movement even when they can’t see or hear it.
Unlike mammals, snakes can’t regulate their body temperature internally, so they rely on external sources for thermoregulation.
Here are five unusual facts about Australian snakes:
- Some species, like the inland taipan, can change color seasonally
- The file snake has loose, baggy skin to help it breathe underwater
- Certain snakes, such as the yellow-faced whip snake, are partially immune to their own venom
- The Australian coral snake can flatten its body to appear larger when threatened
- Some pythons have heat-sensing pits to detect warm-blooded prey in darkness
These fascinating adaptations highlight the diverse and complex nature of Australia’s snake species.
Anecdotes about Australian snakes
Australian snake encounters have generated countless anecdotes, ranging from harrowing close calls to amusing misidentifications. You’ll find that many of these stories involve the eastern brown, coastal taipan, eastern small-eyed, and common death adder—four of Australia’s most venomous snakes.
Species | Venom Potency | Common Habitat |
Eastern Brown | Extremely high | Grasslands, woodlands |
Coastal Taipan | Extremely high | Coastal regions, cane fields |
Common Death Adder | Very high | Forests, heathlands |
One frequently recounted tale involves a farmer who mistook a coiled eastern brown for a garden hose, nearly grasping it before realising his error. Another anecdote describes a coastal taipan entering a classroom, causing a swift evacuation and subsequent careful removal by trained handlers.
You’ll often hear about the common death adder’s camouflage abilities, with hikers reporting close encounters where they’ve narrowly avoided stepping on these well-concealed serpents. These stories serve as reminders of the importance of snake awareness in Australia’s diverse ecosystems. While many anecdotes emphasise danger, they also highlight the remarkable adaptations and behaviors of these fascinating reptiles.
Snake records in Australia
Among the various snake species found in Australia, several hold notable records within their respective categories. You’ll find that the largest type of snake in Australia is the Olive Python (Liasis olivaceus), which can reach lengths of up to 4 meters.
The longest snake record in Australia belongs to a specimen of the Scrub Python (Morelia amethistina), measuring an impressive 8.5 meters.
When it comes to venomous snakes, Australia boasts some remarkable records:
- The Inland Taipan (Oxyuranus microlepidotus) is considered the most venomous land snake
- The Eastern Brown Snake (Pseudonaja textilis) is responsible for the most snake-related deaths in Australia.
- The Coastal Taipan (Oxyuranus scutellatus) has the longest fangs of any Australian snake.
- The Tiger Snake (Notechis scutatus) has the highest venom yield per milking.
- The Death Adder (Acanthophis antarcticus) has the fastest strike of any Australian snake.
These records highlight the diversity and unique characteristics of Australia’s snake fauna.
As a python in Australia, the Olive Python stands out not only for its size but also for its non-venomous nature, contrasting with the country’s many venomous species.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are There Any Snake-Free Areas in Australia?
You won’t find any completely snake-free areas in Australia. Snakes inhabit diverse ecosystems across the continent. However, you’ll encounter fewer snakes in densely populated urban areas, arid deserts, and some offshore islands with limited snake populations.
How Do Australians Typically React to Encountering Snakes in Daily Life?
You’ll typically react calmly to snake encounters, maintaining distance and allowing the reptile to retreat. You’ll contact professional snake handlers for removal if necessary. You’re aware of snake habitats and take precautions in high-risk areas.
What Are the Laws Regarding Keeping Snakes as Pets in Australia?
You’ll find that laws on keeping snakes as pets vary by state in Australia. Generally, you’ll need a license, and venomous species are often prohibited. You must adhere to specific housing, feeding, and handling regulations.
How Do Australian Snake Species Compare to Those Found in Other Countries?
You’ll find Australia’s snake species are distinct from those in other countries. They’re mainly elapids, with unique venom compositions and adaptations. Australia’s isolation has led to endemic species and genera not found elsewhere in the world.
Are There Any Ongoing Conservation Efforts for Endangered Snake Species in Australia?
You’ll find several conservation programs for endangered Australian snakes. They’re focusing on habitat preservation, captive breeding, and population monitoring. Species like the Grassland Earless Dragon and Broad-headed Snake are receiving particular attention due to their critically endangered status.
