Death Adder
Acanthophis Antarcticus
Death Adder
This snake is not actually in the adder family. It is more closely related to the Tiger Snake and Brown Snake families.
It is uncommonly seen because of its secretive habits and nocturnal nature. It is not a long snake, only reaching the length of 40-80cm on average. The tip of its tail is yellow-cream in colour, representing a worm or grub. This is wiggled to attract its prey items, such as a bird or lizard. Its head is positioned close to the tail. Most of the body is covered with leaf litter or dirt to make it almost invisible to unsuspecting prey.
The Death Adder is grey above with red or yellow irregular bands. However, colouration is highly variable. The underparts of this snake are cream with dark flecks. Due to its body shape and colouration, it resembles the adder family, which is where its name came from.
THIS SNAKE IS CONSIDERED HIGHLY VENOMOUS AND DANGEROUS AND SHOULD NEVER BE APPROACHED.
