Australia, renowned for its distinctive landscapes, harbors a diverse array of wildlife, including many snake species. These reptiles are an integral part of the continent’s ecosystems.
Unpacking the Numbers
It is important to distinguish between “poisonous” and “venomous” snakes. Snakes are venomous, injecting toxins through a bite, unlike poisonous animals which are harmful if ingested or touched.
As of 2020, Australia has 109 terrestrial and 30 marine venomous snake species, totaling 139 species. While this number is substantial, not all are considered highly dangerous to humans. All snakes should be treated with respect and caution. The continent’s long period of isolation from other landmasses contributed to this high number, allowing unique species to evolve. Venom proved an effective adaptation for hunting and self-defense, leading to an evolutionary arms race among species.
Australia’s Venomous Snake Diversity
Australia’s venomous snake population is diverse, primarily belonging to the Elapidae family, which includes many well-known terrestrial snakes, and the Hydrophiinae/Laticaudinae subfamilies for sea snakes. Notable terrestrial species include brown snakes, tiger snakes, taipans, and death adders. These snakes exhibit varied characteristics and occupy different habitats.
Eastern brown snakes are slender and can vary in color from tan to dark brown, often having a cream or yellow belly. They are fast-moving and can be aggressive if threatened, commonly found in eastern Australia. They are responsible for a significant number of snakebite fatalities. Their venom contains neurotoxins that affect the nervous system, leading to paralysis, and hemotoxins that interfere with blood clotting.
Tiger snakes, found in southern Australia, are typically large and often display distinctive black and yellow banding, though their coloration can vary greatly. They prefer moist areas and wetlands. Their venom is a complex mix of neurotoxins, myotoxins (causing muscle damage), and coagulants.
Taipans, such as the Inland Taipan, are recognized for having some of the most potent venom in the world. Death adders, with their short, stocky bodies and triangular heads, are ambush predators that employ a unique hunting strategy by twitching their tail to lure prey. Their highly toxic venom is primarily neurotoxic, causing paralysis and potentially respiratory failure if untreated.
Sea snakes, prevalent in northern Australian waters, possess paddle-like tails and valvular nostrils, making them well-adapted to marine life. While all sea snakes are venomous, they are generally docile and reluctant to bite unless threatened. Their venom often causes muscle damage.
Living Safely Alongside Snakes
Living safely alongside numerous venomous snake species requires understanding safety measures. Snake bites in Australia are uncommon, with fatalities being rare, averaging about two deaths per year. This low fatality rate is largely due to effective antivenom treatments and public awareness of first aid.
A primary safety rule is to give snakes space; never attempt to approach, provoke, or handle them. If you encounter a snake, remain still and slowly back away, allowing it to retreat. Keeping yards tidy and free of debris reduces potential hiding spots, especially in suburban areas where many bites occur.
First Aid for Snake Bites
- Call emergency services (000 in Australia) without delay.
- Keep the person bitten as still as possible to slow the spread of venom.
- Apply a pressure immobilisation bandage: Wrap a firm elastic bandage (10-15 cm wide) from the bitten area, starting just above the fingers or toes and extending upwards along the entire limb, as tightly as you would for a sprained ankle.
- Immobilize the limb with a splint.
- Do not wash the wound, cut the bitten area, try to suck out venom, or apply a tourniquet. These actions can worsen the situation or hinder snake identification by medical professionals.