Tiger Snake

Tiger Snakes (*Notechis scutatus*) are a species of large (typical length 1.2m), venomous snake in the family Elapidae found throughout subtropical and temperate coastal regions in Australia, including Tasmania and small coastal islands. They are found in coastal environments, wetlands, and creeks where they often form territories. Areas with an abundance of prey can support large populations.

Tiger snakes are a large group of distinct populations, which may be isolated or overlapping, with extreme variance in size and colour. Individuals also show seasonal variation in colour. The total length is typically about 1.2 metres. The patterning is darker bands, strongly contrasting or indistinct, which are pale to very dark in colour. Colouration is composed of olive, yellow, orange-brown, or jet-black, and the underside of the snake is light yellow or orange.

The snake's large size, often aggressive defence and toxic venom make it extremely dangerous to humans. Although generally shy and preferring escape over conflict, a cornered tiger snake will put on an impressive threat display by holding its forebody in a tense, loose curve with the head slightly raised and pointed at the offender. It will hiss loudly as it inflates and deflates its body, and if provoked further will lash out and bite forcefully. The venom of the tiger snake is strongly neurotoxic and coagulant, and anyone suspected of being bitten should seek medical attention immediately.

The tiger snake uses venom to dispatch its prey, and may bite an aggressor; they are potentially fatal to humans. When threatened, they flatten their bodies and raise their heads above the ground in a classic prestrike stance.

Tolerant of low temperatures, the snake may be active on warmer nights.