Inland Taipan (Oxyuranus microlepidotus)

The Inland Taipan (*Oxyuranus microlepidotus*) aka Western Taipan, Small-scaled snake, and Fierce snake is a medium to large (typical size 2m) species of  extremely venomous snake of genus Oxyuranus, and is endemic to semi-arid regions of central east Australia.

It has a robust build and a deep, rectangular-shaped head. Dorsal colour varies from pale fawn to yellowish-brown to dark brown, with the head and neck being several to many shades darker than the body. Colour changes seasonally, with individuals becoming darker in winter and fading in summer. Many dorsal scales have a blackish-brown lower anterior edge which creates a broken herringbone pattern along the length of the body. The ventral surface is yellowish with orange blotches; this colour often extends to the lowermost lateral scales. Eyes are large, with a very dark iris and round pupil.

The species is primarily, if not exclusively, diurnal in its activity on the surface. They are most active in the early half of the morning, briefly basking and foraging in or near deep soil cracks and animal burrows, before retiring to shelter for the rest of the day. In cooler weather the snakes may also be found active in the afternoon.

Inland Taipans are rarely encountered in the wild by the average person because of their remoteness and brief above-ground appearance during the day. Compared with the related Coastal Taipan (and despite the alternative name ‘Fierce Snake’) this species is actually quite shy and many reptile keepers regard it as a placid snake to handle. However, like any animal, it will defend itself when provoked. Firstly it makes a threat display by raising its forebody in a tight low S-shaped curve with its head facing the offender. Should the offender choose to ignore the warning the Inland Taipan will strike, making a single bite or several quick bites.

Symptoms of envenomation include headache, nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, collapse and paralysis. The venom of the Inland Taipan is extremely potent and is rated as the most toxic of all snake venoms in LD50 tests on mice. As well as being strongly neurotoxic the venom contains a ‘spreading factor’ (hyaluronidase enzyme) that increases the rate of absorption. The venom’s toxicity coupled with its spreading action makes a bite from a Fierce Snake potentially life-threatening, and anyone suspected of receiving a bite should seek immediate medical attention.