List of dangerous snakes

The List of Dangerous Snakes provides an overview of some of the most venomous and potentially dangerous snake species found around the world. This list is not exhaustive, but it highlights key species that pose a significant threat to humans due to their potent venom, aggressive behavior, or likelihood of human encounters.

Dangerous Snakes of Victoria 1877

Soldiers get a lesson in snake safety

Introduction

Snakes are elongated, legless, carnivorous reptiles belonging to the suborder Serpentes. While there are over 3,000 snake species worldwide, only a small percentage are venomous and pose a threat to humans. Venomous snakes use their venom primarily to immobilize and kill prey, but when threatened or accidentally encountered by humans, they can deliver a venomous bite.

Saw scaled viper

List of Dangerous Snakes

Below is a list of some of the most dangerous snake species, based on their venom potency, behavior, and range:

Inland Taipan (Oxyuranus microlepidotus)

• Common names: Inland taipan, small-scaled snake, or fierce snake
• Distribution: Central Australia
• Description: The inland taipan holds the title for the most venomous snake in the world. A single bite from this snake contains enough venom to kill more than 100 adult humans. Fortunately, the inland taipan is a shy and reclusive species, with very few recorded bites on humans.

Indian rat snake

King Cobra (Ophiophagus hannah)

King Cobra

• Common name: King cobra
• Distribution: Southeast Asia, India, and Southern China
• Description: The king cobra is the world's longest venomous snake, reaching lengths of up to 18 feet (5.5 meters). Its venom is not the most potent among venomous snakes, but the large volume of venom delivered in a single bite can be lethal. King cobras are known for their intimidating hood and loud hiss, often raising their heads off the ground when threatened.

Black Mamba (Dendroaspis polylepis)

Black mamba

• Common name: Black mamba
• Distribution: Sub-Saharan Africa
• Description: Known for its agility, speed, and highly potent venom, the black mamba is one of Africa's most feared snakes. Its name comes from the black coloration inside its mouth, not its body color, which is usually olive to gray. Black mambas are known for their aggressive behavior when cornered, and their venom can cause rapid paralysis and death if left untreated.

Many-banded Krait (Bungarus multicinctus)

• Common name: Many-banded krait or Chinese krait
• Distribution: Southeast Asia and Southern China
• Description: The many-banded krait is a highly venomous snake found in Asia, with a potent neurotoxic venom that can cause respiratory failure and death. Kraits are nocturnal and relatively docile, but can become aggressive when provoked. Their bites are often painless, making them difficult to detect, which can delay medical treatment.

Eastern Brown Snake (Pseudonaja textilis)

• Common name: Eastern brown snake or common brown snake
• Distribution: Eastern and central Australia
• Description: The eastern brown snake is responsible for more snakebite deaths in Australia than any other species, due to its potent venom, fast-acting neurotoxins, and proximity to human habitation. These snakes are known for their aggression when threatened, and they can strike rapidly.

Prevention and Treatment

1. To avoid snake encounters and potential bites, it is important to follow some basic safety guidelines:
2. Be aware of your surroundings and avoid areas where snakes are likely to be found.
3. Wear appropriate clothing, such as long pants and boots, when venturing into snake habitats.
4. Avoid reaching into hidden spaces or disturbing potential snake hiding spots, such as under rocks or logs.
5. Keep your living environment clean and free of debris, which can attract snakes and their prey.
6. Teach children to respect and keep a safe distance from snakes.
7. In the event of a snakebite, it is crucial to seek medical attention immediately. While waiting for help, follow these steps:
8. Keep the victim as still and calm as possible to slow the spread of venom.
9. Remove any tight clothing or jewelry near the bite site.
10. Do not attempt to suck out the venom, cut the bite site, or apply a tourniquet, as these methods can cause more harm than good.
11. Try to identify or take a photo of the snake from a safe distance (if possible) to help medical professionals administer the appropriate antivenom.

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