Inland Taipan

It’s the world’s most poisonous snake, capable of killing 100 men with just one drop of venom – and a 17-year-old Hunter Valley teenager has recently survived a bite.

The Inland Taipan, also known as the ‘fierce snake’, is famous for its potent poison. Although several bites have been recorded in Australia, none have ever proved fatal.

They’re a shy, reclusive snake that would rather stay tucked away in cracks and crevices in the soil of arid central Australia than face the harsh light of day where they rarely encounter people.

The venom of the Inland Taipan contains a powerful neurotoxin, combined with a ‘spreading factor’ enzyme that increases the rate of absorption. Prey is attacked with a series of rapid strikes which cause almost instant paralysis.

The Inland Taipan has a conservation status of ‘Rare’ in Queensland, and ‘Presumed Extinct’ in New South Wales and Victoria. Taronga Zoo has four of these rare creatures on display in its Reptile World exhibit – don’t miss your chance to see the most toxic snake in the world.

Media intern, Emma.