One of Australia’s most well-known and dangerous snakes. Despite their name, death adders are not true adders but are more closely related to cobras.

One of the most recognizable features of the common death adder is its broad, triangular head, which is much wider than its neck. This shape makes them look more intimidating and helps store their venom glands. They have rough, keeled scales, and their color patterns vary from reddish-brown to gray or olive, with dark bands running along their body. This color pattern helps them blend in with the leaf litter, sand, or rocky surfaces where they live.

Common death adders are ambush predators, which means they don’t chase after their prey like other snakes. Instead, they stay still, perfectly camouflaged, waiting for prey to come close. They are patient hunters and can remain in one spot for hours or even days. To lure in prey, they use a special trick called caudal luring, where they twitch the tip of their thin tail like a small worm or insect. This movement attracts animals like lizards, birds, and small mammals, which mistake the tail for food. Once the prey is within range, the death adder strikes with lightning speed, delivering a venomous bite before the prey even realizes what’s happening.

The venom of the common death adder is very toxic and contains neurotoxins that affect the nervous system. A bite can cause paralysis, and without treatment, it can be fatal. However, death adders are generally not aggressive toward humans and only bite if they feel threatened or if someone accidentally steps on them. Because of their ambush hunting style, they often stay still even when approached, which can sometimes lead to people unknowingly getting too close.

Distribution

Country

Population est.

Status

Year

Comments

Australia

2017