Inland Taipan

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. - See more at: http://australianmuseum.net.au/inland-taipan#sthash.ulGozaaM.dpuf.