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18004SNAKE
Australian snake guide

Tiger snake

Notechis scutatus

Often banded in yellow and dark brown, but plenty are plain olive or black.

Habitat and distribution

Wetlands, rivers and coastal scrub in the southern states and Tasmania.

Safety

Flattens its neck when threatened. Back away slowly.

Quick facts

Venom
Highly venomous. Its venom can affect nerves, muscles and blood clotting, and it is one of the leading causes of serious snake bite in southern Australia.
Size
Usually about 1 to 1.2 m, occasionally up to 2 m.
Active
By day and on warm evenings. Can stay active in cooler weather than many snakes.
Diet
Mainly frogs, plus fish, lizards, birds and small mammals.

Often confused with

Common questions

Are tiger snakes poisonous or venomous?

Tiger snakes are 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.

Do all tiger snakes have stripes?

No. Many have yellow and dark bands, but plenty are plain olive, brown or jet black, especially in Tasmania and on islands. Colour alone is not a reliable way to identify one.

Where are tiger snakes found?

Across south-eastern and south-western Australia, including Tasmania and many coastal islands. They favour wetlands, creeks, swamps and coastal scrub.

Is the Tasmanian tiger snake different?

Tasmanian tiger snakes are the same species. They are often darker or plain black and are the most widespread venomous snake in Tasmania.

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 Approximate historical reference range; not a habitat or absence assessment.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 11,983 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.