We are gong to start off the week exploring the black soil plains of Australia where we will be searching for a highly venomous but incredibly shy snake known as the Fierce Snake. Other names for this reclusive reptile include the Inland Taipan or the Small Scaled Snake. Personally, I don’t think either of these names match the terrifying images your imagination creates when you use the term Fierce but maybe that is just me. Interestingly enough they were not named fierce as a result of their behaviour but more because of their deadly venom.
How deadly is their fierce venom?
Would you believe me if I told you that the Inland Taipan is the most poisonous snake in the world? That’s right, their venom is more toxic than any other species…by a long shot. Luckily, there have been no recorded deaths from a Fierce Snake. How is this possible if they are so deadly? Remember when I said these snakes are shy and reclusive? They would rather quickly sneak away from a potential threat than stick around and bite them. In fact, most of the people that have been bitten are herpetologists that handling the snakes on a regular basis while studying them. Luckily, they were all treated with the anit-venom and survived, but don’t kid yourself, if they didn’t receive the antidote, they would have died a painful death.
How big is the deadly Fierce Snake?
You will be happy to know that the Inland Taipan can grow up to 2.5 m (8.2 feet) long. What do you mean this doesn’t make you happy? Would you prefer the worlds most toxic snake to hardly be visible? At least you will be able to spot this gigantic snake coming from a mile away. The coloration of this large, poisonous reptile changes drastically depending on the season. During the nice warm summer months this snake will be a lighter yellowish-brown colour. However, once winter rolls around our beloved snake friend turns into a much darker colour. This colour change allows them to absorb as much sunlight as possible during the winter months. Probably a good idea if you are a cold-blooded animal who is looking to stay warm.
