Tiger Snake (Notechis species)

The Tiger Snake (Notechis species) ranks among Australia's most venomous land snakes, inhabiting southern coastal regions and wetlands. Known for its distinctive banded pattern, this highly adaptable predator delivers potent neurotoxins that can cause paralysis and death without treatment. Though generally reclusive, tiger snakes become aggressive when cornered, striking with remarkable speed. Their venom contains powerful presynaptic neurotoxins, myotoxins, and coagulants that attack multiple body systems. Since the development of effective antivenom in the 1950s, fatalities have significantly decreased, though bites still require immediate medical attention. These snakes play a vital ecological role by controlling rodent populations in their native habitats.