Northern Death Adder

The northern death adder is one of Australia and Papua New Guinea’s most formidable snakes. With its viper-like appearance but elapid lineage, making it a relative of cobras and mambas, this highly venomous predator hunts birds, amphibians, and small mammals both day and night. Its venom is among the most dangerous in the world, containing powerful neurotoxins that can cause paralysis and, if untreated, respiratory failure. For this reason, all bites are considered medical emergencies, with treatment relying on specific antivenoms. Death Adders have been known to live well over 40 years of age.

Habitat 

This species is an ambush predator and can be found lying in wait amongst leaf litter and grass tussocks for its prey to walk past. The thick bushland or open savannah woodlands they call home offers them so many different places to hide.

Diet 

Being an ambush species death adders rely on their camouflage skills to keep hidden whilst stalking their prey. They have a clever hunting trick called caudal luring. It stays perfectly still, except for the tip of its tail, which it wiggles like a worm or grub. Curious frogs, lizards, or birds move in for what they think is an easy meal—only to become the adder’s dinner instead.

Breeding

Unlike many snakes that lay eggs, the northern death adder gives birth to live young, usually between 8 and 20 neonates. The newborn adders are fully independent from day one.