How Venomous Are Australian Snakes Really?
When you look for information about Australian venomous snakes you read statements like these again and again: • Australian snakes are the most venomous in the world. • 7 of the worlds 10 most poisonous snakes live in Australia. • You will likely come across a list of the worlds most venomous snakes, starting like this: • Inland Taipan (Oxyuranus microlepidotus) • Eastern Brown Snake (Pseudonaja textilis) • Coastal Taipan (Oxyuranus scutellatus) • Mainland Tiger Snake (Notechis scutatus) • Peninsula or Black Tiger Snake (Notechis ater niger) • The first five snakes and most of the snakes on the list are Australian. Usually one important little note is missing. It should always (and sometimes does) read: “These are the most venomous snakes if you are a mouse.” The toxicity of snake venom is tested in mice. Mice aren’t people. The above mentioned list has little relevance for humans. First it should be said that all Australian venomous snakes have the potential to be dangerous, as venom
