Common death adder

Acanthophis antarcticus

Short and thick with a broad head and a thin, pale tail tip.

Habitat and distribution

Leaf litter in forest and heath along the east coast and across the north.

Safety

Sits still rather than moving off, so it is easy to step near.

Quick facts

Venom: Highly venomous. Its venom mainly affects the nerves and can cause paralysis.
Size: Usually 40 to 70 cm, occasionally up to 1 m.
Active: Mostly at night. Spends the day buried in leaf litter or sand and does not move off when approached.
Diet: Ambushes lizards, frogs, birds and small mammals by wriggling its tail tip as a lure.

Common questions

Why is the death adder risky?

Unlike most snakes it stays still rather than moving away, so people can step on or near one without seeing it. Wear covered shoes and use a torch at night in bushland.

Is the common death adder venomous?

Yes, highly venomous. Snakes are venomous rather than poisonous. The risk comes from a bite, so any suspected bite should be treated as an emergency and you should call 000.

Where it is found

Approximate range based on AROD, adapted to our dot grid. Approximate historical reference range; not a habitat or absence assessment. Listed for 9,879 towns and suburbs. Ranges are approximate and do not confirm occurrence at a particular address.

Call 1800 4 SNAKE (1800 476 253)

If someone has been bitten, call 000. Never approach or handle a snake to identify it.