Tiger snake
| Tiger snakes (notechis) | |
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| Genus: | Notechis
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Notechis scutatus | |
The tiger snakes are two species of highly venomous snake found in Australia. Together they form the Notechis genus of the Elapidae family.
Taxonomy
There are two species and five recognised sub-species:
- N. scutatus - Common Tiger Snake or Eastern Tiger Snake
- N. ater
- N. a. ater - Krefft's Tiger Snake
- N. a. niger - Peninsula Tiger Snake
- N. a. occidentalis - Western Tiger Snake
- N. a. serventyi - Chappell Island Tiger Snake
- N. a. humphreysi - Tasmanian Tiger Snake or King Island Tiger Snake
Population and distribution
Members of the genus are found in southern Australia, Tasmania, islands in the Bass Strait and on New Guinea. Whilst they are commonly found in these areas, their numbers are diminishing. In most states they are protected species and to kill or injure one attracts a fine of up to $4000.
Physical description
The Common Tiger Snake is typically banded, dark brown above with a yellow to oliver belly. N. ater subspecies found away from mainland Australia are usually uniformly black. However, as with most snakes, the colours vary widely between individuals and are an unreliable means of identifying species.
Tiger snakes give live birth to around 30 young at a time.
Venom
All species of tiger snake have a very potent neurotoxic venom. Specific antivenoms are available for the treatment of tiger snake bites. It will generally flee if intruded upon, but will become aggressive if cornered. gay