National Aquarium: Death Adder (Acanthophis praelongus)

Did you know that the death adder lures its prey using the tip of its tail as bait?

The northern variety of this snake has a broad triangular head, with a short, thick body and thin tail. Golden and brown stripes alternate along its body, fading to a more consistent brown close to the head.

Other varieties of death adder are similar in appearance, with the greatest change from species to species being a difference in coloration. Some color variations also exist within the same species from region to region.

While other snakes generally retreat when humans approach, death adders remain motionless, blending in with their environment. Most fatal bites to humans occur after accidentally stepping on these snakes, provoking a bite.

Read on to learn more about the death adder!

 


Science Topics
Zoology
Animals
Snakes
K-6
Kindergarten, 1st Grade, 2nd Grade, 3rd Grade, 4th Grade, 5th Grade, 6th Grade

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