Inland Taipan
Scientific nameOxyuranus microlepidotus
Conservation status (IUCN)
Least Concern
The Inland Taipan is the world’s most venomous snake, also known as the Fierce Snake. Despite this reputation, humans are rarely bitten as the snake is both shy and found only in remote semi-arid areas.
Sydney
Visitor tips for Sydney
You can see an Inland Taipan in ARC.
Fun facts about Inland Taipan
20yrs
Inland Taipans can live from 10-20 years.
Where they're found
South-western Queensland and north-east and central South Australia.
What they eat
They eat introduced mice, native rats, and small marsupials such as carnivorous Dasyurids. Long-haired Rats which go through large seasonal fluctuations are a primary prey item.
1.8m
Inland Taipans can be up to 1.8m long!
20
Inland Taipans can lay between 12-20 eggs in a single clutch.
20yrs
Inland Taipans can live from 10-20 years.
Where they're found
South-western Queensland and north-east and central South Australia.
What they eat
They eat introduced mice, native rats, and small marsupials such as carnivorous Dasyurids. Long-haired Rats which go through large seasonal fluctuations are a primary prey item.
1.8m
Inland Taipans can be up to 1.8m long!
20
Inland Taipans can lay between 12-20 eggs in a single clutch.
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Mammal muncher
Taipans are amongst Australia’s elapid snakes (snakes with short fangs that inject neurotoxins) and feed on mammals, lizards and frogs.
Shy snake
Inland Taipans are a shy and placid snake around people and will only ever bite people when threatened.
Changes with the seasons
The Inland Taipan changes colour with the seasons, and become darker in winter – allowing them to absorb more heat.
