SOUTHERN (COMMON) DEATH ADDER

Scientific name: Acanthophis antarcticus

Family: Elapidae

Order: Squamata

Status: Venomous

Habitat and Distribution

Shelters in or under deep fixed leaf litter usually in close proximity to an overhanging low bush.

About the animal:

• The stoutest of the death adders;
• Colouration is extremely variable usually with distinct cross-bands. The undersurface us creamish grey, often with dark blotches;
• Grows to about 75cm (females are longer than males);
• Sedentary, habitually burrowing under soft soil or leaf litter to await passing prey;
• The main danger to humans is treading upon, or within striking range of it, as any movement may provoke a strike;
• The snakes are born live.

What they eat?

Common Death Adder feeds on lizards, small birds and mammals and occasionally frogs.