Australia is known for its unique biodiversity and distinctive wildlife. Snakes hold a prominent, often feared, place in the public imagination. This leads to questions about their actual prevalence. This article aims to provide an accurate understanding of how common snakes truly are in Australia, moving beyond popular perceptions to offer a clearer picture of their presence.
Understanding Snake Prevalence
Australia is home to 140 to 170 land snake species. Around 100 of these are venomous, making Australia unique for having more venomous than non-venomous species. Despite this high number, individual snake encounters are not daily occurrences for most people, particularly in urban areas. Encounters are relatively rare, and fatal bites are even less common.
Snakes are widespread across Australia, inhabiting nearly every environment from tropical rainforests and arid deserts to forests and suburban landscapes. They are a natural part of the ecosystem, playing a role in controlling rodent populations. While Australia has a reputation for possessing some of the world’s most venomous snakes, only about 12 species are considered lethal to humans. Annually, Australia records an average of two snakebite-related fatalities.
Where Snakes Reside Across Australia
Snakes inhabit a wide array of environments across Australia, with different species preferring specific habitats. Many are found in forests and bushland, while others thrive in arid and semi-arid regions. These reptiles can also be found in coastal areas, grasslands, rocky outcrops, and near waterways, with only the highest alpine zones remaining largely free of snakes.
Human expansion into natural habitats can increase the likelihood of snake encounters. As urban development encroaches on previously undisturbed areas, snakes may adapt to suburban gardens and rural properties. They are sometimes drawn into human-occupied spaces, including houses, in search of warmth, water, or food sources like rodents. Snakes are ectothermic, relying on external heat sources, which makes them more active in warmer climates and months.
Coexisting Safely with Snakes
Given the widespread presence of snakes, maintaining awareness and adopting specific practices can help minimize encounters around homes. Keeping lawns mowed short and removing potential hiding spots like wood piles, leaves, and debris makes a yard less appealing to snakes. Sealing holes and gaps in the foundations of homes, garages, and sheds can also prevent snakes from entering structures.
If a snake is sighted, remaining calm and keeping a safe distance is important. Slowly back away and allow the snake to move on its own. Attempting to provoke, capture, or kill a snake is dangerous and often illegal, as most snakebites occur when people try to interfere with the animal. If a snake enters a home or poses a direct threat, contact a licensed professional snake removal service. These professionals safely relocate the snake without harming it or people.