Acanthophis – Death adders

A group of highly venomous snakes native to Australia, New Guinea, and nearby islands. Despite their name, death adders are not true adders but are more closely related to cobras. They are among the most dangerous snakes in the world, known for their potent venom and unique hunting strategy.

One of the most distinctive features of death adders is their appearance. They have a short, stout body with a broad, triangular head that is much wider than their neck. This head shape, combined with their rough, keeled scales, gives them a rugged look. Their coloration is typically a mix of browns, grays, and reddish hues, with bands or patterns that help them blend into their environment, which is usually leaf litter or sandy soils.

Unlike many other snakes that actively hunt their prey, death adders are ambush predators. They lie in wait, often for hours, until a potential meal comes within striking distance. Their camouflage helps them stay hidden, and they have a unique way of luring prey. Death adders have a thin, worm-like tail that they wiggle to mimic the movement of a small insect or worm. This attracts small animals, such as lizards, birds, or rodents, which are then quickly struck and envenomated by the snake.

The venom of a death adder is highly toxic and can be life-threatening. It contains neurotoxins that affect the nervous system, causing paralysis and, if untreated, can lead to death. Despite their deadly venom, death adders are generally not aggressive and will only bite if they feel threatened or are accidentally stepped on. Because of their ambush strategy, they often stay still even when approached, which can lead to accidental encounters with humans.