Harmful Western Australians
continues

Snakes : Taipan (oxyuranus scutellatus)

This snake is the most venemous snake found in Western Australia . They are found in the North West of the state predominantly in the Kimberley and are reportedly the second most venomous snake in the world. Taipans
apparently also have the rare quality that they inject venom into the victim through the fangs whereas most snakes have the venom running down the front of their fangs. Taipans can grow to about 2 metres long and are rarely a threat 

to humans as they have very accutely developed senses and will avoid larger animals . Taipans are rarely seen by humans for this reason so they do not present a direct threat however if encountered it goes without saying that they should not be mucked with. These
snakes will strike and strike repeatedly if harrased so they should be left alone if
encountered and because of the remoteness of their habitat being bitten by a Taipan could be life threatening as a hospital may be several hours away.   

Snakes: Western Tiger Snake
Tiger snakes are found in the lower half of Western Australia and are particularly
prolific in the lower half of the South West.
On a recent trip we saw at least 6 tiger snakes on a seldom used gravel track south of Manjimup. Tiger Snakes are primarily black in colour and the Western version found here is distinguished by it's yellow bands on it's underbelly. Although it's venom is not as toxic as the taipan it still has a potentially life threatening venom and has killed humans as recently as a few weeks ago when a young boy was bitten on the outskirts of the

Western Tiger Snake photographed on Bluff Knoll road , Stirling Range National Park

Metropolitan area . Tiger snakes are said to have a "Bulldog Grip" and are slower moving than other snakes found here so caution should be exercised when walking in likely Tiger Snake habitats. Under no circumstances should a tiger snake be mucked with they will strike if harassed ,when getting ready to strike the neck flattens and the upper half of the body forms an "S" like shape. Tiger snakes are usually found around swamps and wetlands where they can find one of their favourite food ,frogs.

Snakes : Mulga Snake
Also known as King Brown snake this snake is found throughout most of the state predominantly in the North West . It is very quick
moving and possesses a very toxic venom which can be life threatening . Mulga Snakes will generally avoid contact with Humans or larger animals but if harassed or cornered it becomes extremely aggressive and has been known to pursue antagonists. Mulga Snakes are best left alone and sturdy footwear and perhaps gaiters are recommended when walking in the North West.

Mulga Snake photographed in the Pilbara
Region of WA

Snakes: Death Adder
There are a few different species of Death adder found here in Western Australia the one pictured on the left is a Northern Death adder . Death Adders are found throughout most of the state except the south west corner .Death adders are reasonably short and thick with a thin tail and a diamond shaped head. Death Adders usually hide under leaves or other material in wait for prey and can be reluctant to move so care must be taken when walking in death adder country. Another snake with very toxic venom that can be life threatening.