Coastal Taipan (Oxyuranus scutellatus)

The Coastal Taipan (Oxyuranus scutellatus) is one of the world's deadliest snakes, native to northern and eastern Australia and New Guinea. Known for its lightning-fast strikes and extremely potent neurotoxic venom, a single bite contains enough toxin to kill 100 adults. Unlike many venomous snakes, the Taipan often delivers multiple bites when threatened. Its venom causes paralysis, internal bleeding, and organ failure within hours if untreated. Despite its lethality, this snake is generally shy and avoids confrontation. Antivenom has reduced fatalities, but encounters remain extremely dangerous due to the snake's aggressive defense when cornered.