COMMON DEATH ADDER
Significance to Humans:
Bites from this species have caused human fatalities. A ready biter only if harassed. Bites from this species should be treated immediately and attended to with correct first aid.
General description:
Short, thick body with distinct large triangular head. Narrow neck and abruptly short, thin tail, usually cream or black. Colour variable, generally shades of grey to reddish-brown with irregular cross-banding. Belly greyish-cream with dark flecks. Lips usually barred or striped. Scales may be roughish or weakly keeled. Midbody scales at 21 -23 rows.
Average Length:
40-50cm. Specimens as large as 75cm are uncommon.
Habitat in SE Qld:
Remnant or established eucalypt forest, woodland with grassy understorey and good leaf cover. Rock outcrops and ridgelines are often associated with preferable habitat.
General habits:
Nocturnal, secretive and highly cryptic it lies half-buried in substrate to ambush prey often using its tail tip to attract prey.
Diet:
Small mammals, lizards, frogs and other reptiles.
Local distribution:
The Death Adder is uncommonly sighted throughout the Sunshine Coast. Sightings mainly around Kenilworth and Connonadale ranges however the occasional roadkill has been seen in areas containing the right habitat in the undulating, vegetated outer suburbs on the coast such as Landsborough, Maleny and possibly Kiels Mountain.
Around the home:
The specific nature of required habitat makes encounters a rare event. However, the species preference for heavy leaf litter may see it turn up in forested gardens near suitable habitat.
HIGHLY-VENOMOUS
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