11 Dangerous snakes species in the World

Snakes are fascinating yet formidable creatures, with some species possessing venom that makes them particularly dangerous. Among the 11 most dangerous snakes species in the world are renowned names like the Black Mamba, Coastal Taipan, and Saw-scaled Viper. These snakes are known for their potent venom and deadly bites, capable of causing severe harm or even death to humans. From the lightning-fast strikes of the Black Mamba to the powerful neurotoxins of the Indian Cobra, each of these species presents unique dangers to those who encounter them.

While these 11 species represent some of the most notorious snakes in terms of danger, there are numerous other venomous and deadly snakes worldwide. Exploring the diversity of these creatures not only deepens our understanding of them but also enhances our appreciation for the complexity of the natural world. To learn more about other dangerous snake species, including those not listed here, continue your exploration of the fascinating world of venomous snakes.

Dangerous snakes no 1: Inland Taipan Identification and Characteristics

1. Identification: The Inland Taipan, also known as the “fierce snake” or “Oxyuranus microlepidotus,” is identifiable by its slender body, olive to dark brown coloration, and small scales. It possesses highly potent venom, making it one of the most dangerous snakes worldwide.
2. Habitat: It inhabits semi-arid to arid regions of central Australia, favoring grasslands, scrubs, and open woodlands.
3. Size and Lifespan: Inland Taipans typically measure around 1.8 meters (6 feet) in length. They have a lifespan of around 10-15 years in the wild.
4. Activity: These snakes are most active during the warmer months but may also be found active in cooler weather, especially in the afternoon.
5. Habitat Preference: Inland Taipans are commonly found in rocky outcrops, grassy areas, and under debris, rocks, or fallen timber, where they can seek shelter and ambush prey.

FAQs about the Inland Taipan

Is the Inland Taipan venomous?

Yes, the Inland Taipan possesses highly toxic venom, making it one of the deadliest snakes globally.

Has anyone died from an Inland Taipan bite?

There have been no recorded human fatalities from an Inland Taipan bite, likely due to its remote habitat and shy behavior, which minimizes encounters with humans .

Is the Inland Taipan a common species?

• Despite its potency, the Inland Taipan is relatively rare and occupies specific habitats in central Australia.

Dangerous snakes no 2: Coastal Taipan Identification and Characteristics

The Coastal Taipan, scientifically known as Oxyuranus scutellatus, is a highly venomous snake native to northern and eastern coastal regions of Australia. Here’s how it can be identified:

1. Appearance: The Coastal Taipan is slender with a glossy olive-brown to dark brown coloration. It has lighter underbellies and dark scales bordered with black. Its head is distinctively elongated and slender, with large eyes and short, fixed fangs.
2. Habitat: Found primarily in coastal areas, including rainforests, woodlands, and grasslands, the Coastal Taipan prefers areas with dense vegetation and abundant prey. It may also inhabit farmland and sugarcane fields.
3. Size: Adults can reach lengths of up to 2 meters (6.6 feet) but typically measure around 1.5 meters (4.9 feet) in length.
4. Lifespan: Coastal Taipans have a lifespan of about 15 to 20 years in the wild.
5. Activity: These snakes are primarily diurnal, meaning they are most active during the day. They hunt for prey such as mammals, birds, and reptiles.
6. Habitat Preferences: Coastal Taipans can be found basking in the sun, hiding under rocks, logs, or in dense vegetation, or seeking shelter in abandoned burrows or human structures.

3 FAQs about the Coastal Taipan

Is the Coastal Taipan venomous?
Yes, the Coastal Taipan possesses highly potent neurotoxic venom, capable of causing severe illness or death if untreated.

How dangerous is the Coastal Taipan’s bite to humans?
The Coastal Taipan’s venom can lead to paralysis, respiratory failure, and cardiac arrest. Prompt medical treatment is essential in the event of a bite.

Is the Coastal Taipan a common species?
While not as widespread as some other venomous snakes, such as the Eastern Brown Snake, the Coastal Taipan is considered relatively common within its range.

Dangerous snake no 3: Identifying the Eastern Brown Snake

The Eastern Brown Snake (Pseudonaja textilis), also known as the Common Brown Snake, is identifiable by its slender body, ranging in color from brown to light orange-brown, often with darker speckles. It typically grows between 1.1 to 1.8 meters in length.

They inhabit a variety of environments including woodlands, grasslands, and urban areas, often seeking shelter under rocks, logs, and debris.

Characteristics and Behavior

1. Activity: Eastern Brown Snakes are diurnal, meaning they are most active during the day, particularly in warmer months when they search for food and mate.
2. Lifespan: In the wild, they typically live around 10-15 years.
3. Habitat Preference: They can be found basking in the sun to regulate their body temperature, hiding in shadows, or seeking shelter under rocks and other debris.

FAQs about the Eastern Brown Snake

Is the Eastern Brown Snake venomous?

Yes, the Eastern Brown Snake is extremely venomous and is responsible for the majority of snakebite deaths in Australia.

How dangerous is the Eastern Brown Snake?

The Eastern Brown Snake possesses potent neurotoxic venom, causing symptoms ranging from localized pain to paralysis and potentially death if not treated promptly.

Are there subspecies of the Eastern Brown Snake?

There are no recognized subspecies of the Eastern Brown Snake, but it shares similarities with other snake species in its genus, such as the Mulga Snake (Pseudechis australis).

Dangerous snake no 4: King Cobra Identification and Characteristics

The King Cobra (Ophiophagus hannah) is easily identified by its distinctive features:

1. Appearance: It’s the world’s longest venomous snake, often exceeding 18 feet (5.5 meters) in length. King Cobras are easily recognizable by their olive-green scales, hooded appearance when threatened, and distinctive “spectacles” or round markings on the back of their hoods.
2. Habitat: They inhabit diverse environments, including forests, bamboo thickets, mangrove swamps, high-altitude grasslands, and rivers.
3. Size: King Cobras are notably large, with specimens reaching lengths of over 18 feet (5.5 meters).
4. Lifespan: In the wild, King Cobras can live up to about 20 years.
5. Activity: They are diurnal, most active during the day. King Cobras can often be found basking in the sun or seeking shelter under rocks, in shadows, or within dense vegetation.

3 FAQs about the King Cobra

Is the King Cobra venomous?
Yes, the King Cobra is highly venomous and possesses neurotoxic venom, which can be lethal to humans if envenomation occurs.

How dangerous is a King Cobra’s bite to humans?
A bite from a King Cobra can be fatal if not promptly treated. Its venom can cause paralysis, respiratory failure, and death.

Is the King Cobra a common species?
While not as abundant as some other snake species, King Cobras are not considered rare. However, due to habitat loss and hunting, their populations are declining.

Dangerous snakes no 5: Black Mamba Identification and Characteristics

The Black Mamba, scientifically known as Dendroaspis polylepis, is a highly venomous snake native to sub-Saharan Africa. Here’s how it can be identified:

1. Appearance: The Black Mamba gets its name from the dark coloration inside its mouth, rather than its exterior appearance, which can range from olive to grayish-brown. It has a slender body with smooth scales and a coffin-shaped head.
2. Habitat: Found in a variety of habitats including savannas, woodlands, and rocky areas, the Black Mamba prefers areas with dense vegetation and proximity to water sources. It may also inhabit human settlements and agricultural areas.
3. Size: Adults can reach lengths of up to 2.5 meters (8.2 feet), although specimens over 3 meters (9.8 feet) have been recorded.
4. Lifespan: Black Mambas have a lifespan of around 11 years in the wild, although captive specimens can live longer.
5. Activity: Black Mambas are diurnal hunters, meaning they are most active during the day. They are fast-moving and agile, capable of reaching speeds of up to 20 km/h (12 mph).
6. Habitat Preferences: Black Mambas can be found basking in the sun, hiding in rock crevices, dense vegetation, or abandoned burrows, and seeking shelter in human structures or termite mounds.

3 FAQs about the Black Mamba

Is the Black Mamba the deadliest snake in the world?
While the Black Mamba’s venom is highly potent, it is not considered the deadliest snake. However, its speed, aggressiveness, and potent neurotoxic venom make it one of the most feared snakes in Africa.

How dangerous is the Black Mamba’s bite to humans?
The Black Mamba’s venom can cause rapid onset of symptoms, including paralysis, respiratory failure, and death if left untreated. Prompt medical attention is crucial in the event of a bite.

Is the Black Mamba a common species?
The Black Mamba is relatively common within its range in sub-Saharan Africa. However, due to its elusive nature and preference for remote habitats, encounters with humans are infrequent.

Dangerous snakes no 6: Barba Amarilla Identification and Characteristics

Identification: The Barba Amarilla, also known as the Bothrops asper, is a venomous pit viper found in Central and South America. It has a robust body with keeled scales and a distinct yellowish or olive-brown coloration with dark markings. Its head is triangular, and it possesses heat-sensing pits between the eyes and nostrils.

Habitat: Barba Amarillas inhabit a variety of environments, including forests, grasslands, and agricultural areas, but are commonly found near water sources such as streams and rivers.

Size: Adults typically measure between 0.9 to 1.8 meters (3 to 6 feet) in length.

Lifespan: In the wild, Barba Amarillas can live up to 20 years.

Activity: These snakes are primarily nocturnal but may also be active during the day, especially in cooler weather. They are ambush predators and often hide under rocks, logs, or vegetation.

FAQ’s about the Barba Amarilla (Bothrops asper)

Is the Barba Amarilla venomous?
Yes, the Barba Amarilla, also known as the Fer-de-lance, possesses potent venom, making it one of the most dangerous snakes in Central and South America.

What is the habitat of the Barba Amarilla?
Barba Amarillas inhabit various environments, including rainforests, savannas, and agricultural areas. They are often found near water sources such as streams, ponds, and swamps.

How long can a Barba Amarilla grow?
Adults of the Barba Amarilla species can reach lengths of up to 1.8 meters (6 feet).

Dangerous snake no 7: Eastern Tiger Snake Identification and Characteristics

Identification: The Eastern Tiger Snake, also known as Notechis scutatus, is a highly venomous snake native to southeastern Australia. It has distinctive tiger-like stripes on its body, which can vary in color from yellow to olive-brown or black.

Habitat: Found in diverse habitats, including coastal areas, wetlands, grasslands, and forests, the Eastern Tiger Snake is often encountered near water sources such as swamps and marshes.

Size: Adults typically range from 1 to 1.5 meters (3.3 to 4.9 feet) in length.

Lifespan: In the wild, Eastern Tiger Snakes can live up to 15 years.

Activity: These snakes are diurnal and semi-aquatic, often basking in the sun near water or hiding under rocks, logs, or debris.

FAQ’s about the Eastern Tiger Snake (Notechis scutatus)

Is the Eastern Tiger Snake nocturnal?
Yes, the Eastern Tiger Snake is primarily nocturnal, hunting for prey such as lizards, nestling birds, bats, and small rodents during the night.

Where is the Eastern Tiger Snake commonly found?
Eastern Tiger Snakes are native to southeastern Australia, where they inhabit diverse habitats such as coastal areas, wetlands, and forests.

How long can an Eastern Tiger Snake live?
In the wild, Eastern Tiger Snakes typically have a lifespan of up to 15 years.

Dangerous snakes no 8: Russell’s Viper Identification and Characteristics

Identification: Russell’s Viper, scientifically known as Daboia russelii, is a venomous snake found in South Asia and Southeast Asia. It has a stout body, triangular-shaped head, and distinctive keeled scales. Its coloration varies but typically includes shades of brown, gray, or yellow, with darker markings.

Habitat: Russell’s Vipers inhabit a wide range of habitats, including grasslands, agricultural areas, and forests, often near human settlements. They are also commonly found in rocky terrain and scrublands.

Size: Adults can reach lengths of up to 1.5 to 1.8 meters (5 to 6 feet).

Lifespan: In the wild, Russell’s Vipers typically live around 10 to 15 years.

Activity: These snakes are primarily nocturnal and crepuscular, becoming more active during twilight hours. They may seek shelter under rocks, in burrows, or among vegetation during the day.

FAQ’s about the Russell’s Viper (Daboia russelii)

What is the diet of a Russell’s Viper?
Russell’s Vipers primarily feed on rodents, making them an essential component of controlling rodent populations in their habitat.

Are Russell’s Vipers commonly found?
Yes, Russell’s Vipers are relatively common in their range, especially in areas with abundant rodent populations.

Is the bite of a Russell’s Viper fatal?
Yes, the bite of a Russell’s Viper can be lethal if not treated promptly, as their venom is highly toxic and can lead to severe symptoms or death.

Dangerous snake no 9: Saw-scaled Viper Identification and Characteristics

Identification: The Saw-scaled Viper, also known as Echis, is a venomous snake found in parts of Africa, the Middle East, and the Indian subcontinent. It is characterized by a rough, keeled dorsal scales and a distinct saw-like ridge along its back. Coloration varies but typically includes shades of brown, gray, or reddish-brown.

Habitat: Saw-scaled Vipers inhabit a variety of habitats, including deserts, grasslands, rocky terrain, and agricultural areas. They are often found in dry, arid regions but can also occur in more humid environments.

Size: Adults are relatively small, typically measuring between 30 to 60 centimeters (12 to 24 inches) in length.

Lifespan: In the wild, Saw-scaled Vipers have a lifespan of around 10 to 15 years.

Activity: These snakes are primarily nocturnal, becoming more active at night when temperatures are cooler. They may hide under rocks, in crevices, or buried in sand during the day.

FAQ’s about the Saw-scaled Viper

Is the bite of the Saw-scaled Viper deadly to humans?
Yes, the bite of the Saw-scaled Viper can be lethal. Its venom contains potent hemotoxins and cytotoxins, which can lead to tissue damage, internal bleeding, and, if left untreated, death.

Where are Saw-scaled Vipers commonly found?
Saw-scaled Vipers are widespread and can be found in various habitats across Africa, the Middle East, and the Indian subcontinent. They often inhabit dry, arid regions but may also occur in more humid environments.

How do you treat a bite from a Saw-scaled Viper?
Immediate medical attention is crucial in case of a bite from a Saw-scaled Viper. Treatment typically involves administering antivenom to neutralize the venom’s effects and managing symptoms such as pain, swelling, and bleeding.

Dangerous snakes no 10: Banded Krait Identification and Characteristics

Identification: The Banded Krait, scientifically known as Bungarus fasciatus, is a venomous snake found in parts of Southeast Asia. It has a distinctive black and white banded pattern along its body, with narrow white bands bordered by wider black bands. Its head is small and triangular, and it possesses round pupils.

Habitat: Banded Kraits inhabit diverse habitats, including forests, grasslands, and agricultural areas. They are often encountered near water sources such as rivers, ponds, and rice paddies.

Size: Adults can reach lengths of up to 1 to 1.5 meters (3.3 to 4.9 feet).

Lifespan: In the wild, Banded Kraits typically live around 10 to 15 years.

Activity: These snakes are primarily nocturnal and often seek shelter in underground burrows, rock crevices, or dense vegetation during the day.

FAQ’s about the Banded Krait

Is the Banded Krait’s venom lethal to humans?
Yes, the Banded Krait possesses highly potent neurotoxic venom, which can cause paralysis and respiratory failure. Bites can be fatal without prompt medical treatment.

What is the behavior of the Banded Krait?
Banded Kraits are primarily nocturnal and secretive snakes. They are often found hiding in burrows, rock crevices, or dense vegetation during the day, becoming active at night to hunt for prey.

Are encounters with Banded Kraits common in Southeast Asia?
While Banded Kraits are native to Southeast Asia, encounters with humans are relatively rare due to their elusive nature and nocturnal habits. However, they can pose a significant risk if encountered, especially in rural areas.

Dangerous snakes no 11: Fer-de-lance Identification and Characteristics

Identification: The Fer-de-lance, scientifically known as Bothrops asper, is a highly venomous pit viper found in Central and South America. It has a stout body with keeled scales and a brown or gray coloration.

Habitat: Fer-de-lances inhabit various habitats, including rainforests, savannas, and agricultural areas. They are often found near water sources such as streams, ponds, and swamps.

Size: Adults can reach lengths of up to 1.8 meters (6 feet).

Lifespan: In the wild, Fer-de-lances typically live around 10 to 15 years.

Activity: These snakes are primarily nocturnal and ambush predators, often hiding under leaf litter, fallen logs, or rocks during the day.

FAQ’s about the Fer-de-lance

How dangerous is the bite of the Fer-de-lance?
The Fer-de-lance’s bite is highly dangerous, with its venom containing potent hemotoxins and necrotoxins. It can cause severe tissue damage, internal bleeding, and even death if not treated promptly.

Where can Fer-de-lances be found in Central and South America?
Fer-de-lances inhabit a range of habitats, including rainforests, savannas, and agricultural areas, across Central and South America. They are often encountered near water sources such as streams, ponds, and swamps.

How do you prevent Fer-de-lance bites?
Avoiding contact with Fer-de-lances is the best prevention measure. When in their habitat, watch your step, wear protective clothing, and use caution when reaching into crevices or under rocks, where they may be hiding.

🌐 Sources

1. National Geographic – Snakes, facts and information
2. Britannica Kids – snake
3. Wikipedia – Snake
4. Save The Snakes – Why Snakes?
5. Britannica Kids – snake

Here is 25 more Dangerous snakes you can go view.

1. Boomslang – National Geographic
2. Black-necked Spitting Cobra – Britannica
3. Coastal Taipan – Australian Museum
4. Egyptian Cobra – Britannica
5. Gaboon Viper – Wikipedia
6. Indian Cobra – Wikipedia
7. Inland Taipan – Billabong Sanctuary
8. Puff Adder – Wikipedia
9. Rhinoceros Viper – Britannica
10. Tiger Snake – Wikipedia
11. Black Mamba – Wikipedia
12. Boomslang – Save The Snakes
13. Banded Krait – Britannica
14. Malayan Pit Viper – Wikipedia
15. Monocled Cobra – Wikipedia
16. Saw-Scaled Viper – Wikipedia
17. Fer-de-Lance – Britannica
18. King Cobra – Britannica
19. Philippine Cobra – Wikipedia
20. Black-necked Spitting Cobra – MSPCA
21. Coral Snake – Wikipedia
22. Tiger Snake – Wikipedia
23. Green Mamba – Wikipedia
24. Red-bellied Black Snake – Wikipedia
25. Western Green Mamba – Wikipedia