Common Death Adder

The common death adder is one of Australia’s most iconic and misunderstood venomous snakes. Unlike most snakes that slither quickly and avoid confrontation, the death adder prefers to lie in wait, using its incredible camouflage to blend seamlessly into leaf litter, sand, or debris in forested and arid regions across eastern and southern Australia. This ambush predator relies on stillness, stealth, and a unique tail-twitching lure to draw in unsuspecting prey.

Its thick, muscular body is relatively short and flattened compared to other Australian snakes, and it sports a distinctive triangular head with prominent fangs, an indication of its potent bite. Colouration varies based on habitat, ranging from reddish-brown to grey or yellow-banded, helping it stay invisible in the wild. Its tail ends in a worm-like tip, which it uses to wiggle like bait, mimicking the movements of a grub or caterpillar to lure lizards and small mammals.

Despite its name, the death adder is not aggressive and rarely strikes unless provoked. However, when it does bite, it delivers a rapid and highly toxic venom. Before the advent of antivenom, bites were often fatal, hence its chilling name. Today, fatalities are extremely rare thanks to improved treatment, but caution is still warranted when encountering one.

The common death adder's hunting method is known as “sit and wait” predation. It may lie motionless for days, striking with lightning speed once prey approaches. It then waits patiently as the venom takes effect before consuming its meal whole.

These secretive reptiles are mostly nocturnal, active at dusk and during the night. In cooler months, they may bask in the sun or shelter beneath rocks and logs. Although populations have declined due to habitat destruction and the spread of invasive cane toads, they still occupy a wide range across much of coastal and inland Australia.

Did You Know?

Despite being snakes, common death adders give birth to live young, with females delivering up to 20 offspring at once, no eggs involved!