Australian Snake Identification Chart

Australian Snake Identification Chart

Approximately 10 people are bitten by snakes every day in Australia. Fortunately, most of these snake bites are not life-threatening; only about 13% of bites require anti-venom treatment. Snakes are found nationwide in a vast array of sizes, colours, and patterns. Being able to identify them is essential for safety and informed decision-making.

Why Use a Snake Identification Chart?

Australia is home to a diverse range of snake species. While many inhabit wild environments, making encounters with hikers and campers infrequent, numerous species have adapted to urban areas. It is not uncommon to find snakes hiding in gardens or even entering homes.

The likelihood of an encounter increases during periods of high snake activity. Knowing which species you are looking at helps determine the best course of action. Please bear in mind that under no circumstances should a snake be handled without an expert.

What are the Main Species of Snakes in Australia?

Main Species of Snakes in Australia. Australian Snake Identification Chart

Taipans

Australia is home to three species of Taipans which are highly venomous: the Inland Taipan, the Coastal Taipan, and the Western Desert Taipan. These snakes can reach lengths of two metres. Their appearance is seasonal; they display paler scales during the summer months and significantly darker shades in winter. Taipans can be very aggressive and fast

Brown Snakes

Brown Ssnakes are arguably the most notorious snakes in the country. There are nine species distributed across Australia, and they are responsible for more hospitalisations than any other type of snake. The Eastern Brown snake, in particular, is the second most venomous land snake in the world.

Unlike most snakes, Brown Snakes are diurnal (daylight). They exceed two metres in length and usually have a brown or black body with a head that is noticeably paler than the rest of the torso. Though timid by nature, they will strike if they feel trapped.

Tiger Snakes

Tiger Snakes Australian Snake Identification Chart

There is only a single species of Tiger Snake in Australia, but they are difficult to identify since they have multiple local varieties. These highly venomous snakes can have dark brown and yellow-brown bands, but often these stripes may not be present. Since colouration can vary significantly within the species, it should not be relied upon as the only way to identify Tiger Snakes.

A defining characteristic of Tiger Snakes is their ability to flatten their bodies at the base of the head when threatened—a defensive posture that mimics the hood of a cobra. Tiger Snake venom is highly potent, containing neurotoxins and blood coagulants.

Death Adder

There are seven species of death adders in Australia and they can be found throughout most of the country. They are venomous snakes but are also fairly small in size for their fearsome reputation. They usually feature striped patterns that help them camouflage into their surroundings.

The death adder is one of the fastest snakes in the world, but it is also calm. The Death Adder is an ambush predator. Rather than fleeing, it remains motionless at night, waiting for prey to approach.

Other Snakes

Australian Snake Identification Chart. Other Snakes.

Pythons, such as the Scrub, Olive and Carpet varieties, are common throughout Australia. These snakes are non-venomous. As constrictors, they kill their prey by coiling around it and halting blood flow.

Snake Prey and Dietary Myths

A common myth suggests that snakes will eat anything. In reality, they are quite particular about their diet. A snake can only consume prey that is slightly wider than its own body. While sensationalist media stories often claim snakes can eat humans, there are only three recorded instances in history—all involving snakes 6 to 7 metres long, which is far larger than any species found in Australia.

The "Pupil Test" Fallacy

Many people mistakenly believe they can determine if a snake is dangerous by checking if its pupils are round or vertical slits. Do not attempt this.

  • Terminology: Snakes are venomous, not poisonous. (Poisons are harmful if swallowed; venom is injected).
  • Proximity: Getting close enough to inspect a snake's eyes puts you at immediate risk of being bitten.
  • Inaccuracy: Pupil shape is not a reliable indicator of toxicity. Instead, it typically indicates whether a snake is nocturnal (slits) or diurnal (round).

How to Keep Snakes Away from Your Property

The best way to prevent snakes from entering your home and garden is by creating an environment that discourages them. Here’s how:

  • Eliminate hiding spots – Keep your yard free from woodpiles, thick mulch, and overgrown grass.
  • Remove food sources – Snakes are drawn to areas with rodents, so keeping pests under control is key.
  • Install EnviroBug Snake Repellers – A safe, chemical-free solution that emits vibrations to deter snakes from settling on your property.

Final Word: Australian Snake Identification Chart

Snakes are a vital component of Australia’s local ecosystem. Given their widespread distribution across the country, having an encounter with one is entirely natural and relatively common. If you cross paths with a snake, the best approach is simply to stand still or back away slowly, allowing the animal to pass without feeling threatened.

Should you encounter snakes around your home or backyard, the safest and most effective strategy is to deter them using humane snake repellent devices. Crucially, it is important to remember that all native snakes are protected by law in Australia; it is strictly illegal to harm or kill them. By respecting their space and utilising preventative measures, we can safely share our environment with these remarkable reptiles.

Products

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EnviroBug Powerful Solar Snake Repellers (8th Generation) - Envirobug
EnviroBug Powerful Solar Snake Repellers (8th Generation) from $119.00 $149.00
The original Australian solar snake repeller. Launched in 2008. Now in its 8th generation — stronger, more reliable and more adaptable than ever. EnviroBug didn't follow the market. We created it. Eighteen years of continuous improvement means one thing: when your family and pets are at risk from venomous ground snakes, you're buying the best protection available. Proven Effectiveness EnviroBug solar repellers are recognised as the most powerful and reliable on the market — and they don't stop when the sun does. An internal rechargeable battery keeps them running for up to 10 days without sunlight, through overcast days, long nights and everything in between. Your family and pets stay protected continuously, not just when conditions are ideal. The Threat Is Real Australia is home to 20 of the world's 25 most venomous snakes — and the most dangerous ones are ground dwellers that live exactly where you do.  Eastern Brown Snakes, Tiger Snakes, Red-bellied Blacks and taipans don't announce themselves. They're found in backyards, under houses, in garden beds and along fence lines across regional and suburban Australia.  EnviroBug repellers are specifically designed to deter the ground-dwelling species that pose the greatest risk to your family. The safest encounter with a snake is the one that never happens — and that's exactly what these repellers are designed to deliver. Snake activity peaks in spring and summer as temperatures rise and snakes emerge to feed and breed. That's also when encounters with humans and pets spike dramatically. The best time to install your repellers is before the season starts. Prevention Is Everything Eight out of ten snake bites happen during human intervention — picking up, cornering, startling or accidentally stepping on a snake. Kids and dogs are disproportionately at risk: they move fast, stay low to the ground and don't recognise the warning signs that tell adults to back away. A curious dog investigates with its nose. A child doesn't know to freeze.  The only reliable way to protect your family is to make sure that encounter never happens. EnviroBug repellers work to keep snakes away from your property in the first place — and compel those that have already established territory to move on. **If you do encounter a snake:** stop, stay still and back away slowly. Never attempt to pick it up, chase it or corner it — this is when the overwhelming majority of bites occur. Call a licensed snake handler for removal. Why Variable Frequency Wins A powerful vibrating motor drives physical ground vibrations outward continuously — but what makes EnviroBug's snake repellers different is the variable frequency pattern. The vibration signal keeps changing, mimicking the movement of large animals and preventing snakes from habituating to it. Snakes rely on ground vibration to detect threat and movement. A fixed frequency repeller eventually stops working as snakes learn to ignore it. A variable frequency one doesn't. That's the difference between a repeller that works for a season and one that works for years. 18 Years. Tens of Thousands of Properties. One Result. Since 2008, Australian families have trusted EnviroBug snake repellers to keep venomous snakes off their properties — in the bush, on farms, in suburban backyards and everywhere in between. That breadth of real-world performance, across 18 years and Australia's harshest conditions, is a track record no competitor can match. Buy Genuine. Stay Safe. Counterfeit and copycat repellers are a real problem. If it looks similar but isn't genuine, it isn't the same. Never risk your family's safety on an imitation. What Makes It Work Stronger vibrations, consistent operation — A more powerful motor than any previous generation delivers deeper, further-reaching ground vibrations — that don’t disturb you, your family or your animals Variable frequency pattern — The vibration interval keeps changing so snakes can never habituate to it — maximum discomfort, zero harm, continuous effectiveness 40-metre diameter coverage — That's up to 1,200m² of protected area per unit — 80% more coverage than other repellers on the market Slanted solar head, built for Australian conditions — The angled, weatherproof, fade-resistant panel targets the sun more effectively and is designed to stay clear and fog-free for years of reliable charging Large rechargeable battery included — everything you need is in the box Up to 10 days charge in poor sunlight — Cloudy weeks, long nights, shaded mornings — protection continues uninterrupted regardless of conditions LED indicator light — A quiet visual confirmation that your unit is on and working Anodised stem — Prevents corrosive mineralisation from soil contact, extending the unit's lifespan in tough ground conditions 12-month warranty — Backed by EnviroBug's local Australian customer service team You can watch our videos and installation instructions here.  How to Install Choose your placement — Focus on open sunny areas (6-8 hours of sun per day is ideal), perimeter lines and high-risk zones around the building — avoid placing units in full shade where solar charging will be compromised Create the hole — Use a metal stake or shovel to create a hole big enough for the repeller stem, then push it firmly into position — level ground gives best vibration transmission Switch it on — The repeller activates immediately and runs continuously Space correctly — For full perimeter coverage, space units so their 40-metre diameter zones overlap slightly — no gaps, no blind spots Apply LANOX (or a similar water dispersant formula) annually — A quick application of LANOX lanolin lubricant to internal components before the wet season extends the unit's lifespan significantly. If you anticipate flooding, bring the repellers inside until water recedes. Watch our installation videos and guides here. 
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EnviroBug Powerful Battery Snake Repellers (8th Generation) - Envirobug
EnviroBug Powerful Battery Snake Repellers (8th Generation) from $119.00 $149.00
The Most Powerful Snake Repellers Money Can Buy. #1 in Australia: Rated by Better Homes and Gardens. The safest encounter with a snake is the one that never happens — and that's exactly what these repellers are designed to deliver. We launched Australia's original snake repeller in 2008. Eighteen years and eight generations later, nothing else comes close. These battery-powered units are suitable for anywhere, sun or shade. This includes yards, under buildings, protected zones and anywhere reliable sunlight is off the table. Four D-cell batteries give six to eight months of continuous 24/7 protection. Double the deterrent mechanism of any competitor on the market. Don't compromise when it comes to protecting your family and pets from deadly Australian snakes. Eight out of ten snake bites happen when people try to pick up, corner, startle or accidentally step on a snake.  Battery-powered units are built for the spots solar can't reliably cover — shaded gardens, protected zones, under buildings, decks and dense vegetation.  For complete perimeter protection, run battery-powered units in shaded zones alongside solar-powered EnviroBug repellers in open areas. Together they eliminate blind spots across almost any outdoor environment. Key Features Double Protection — Unique to This Model — The only repeller on the market combining a sonic buzzer frequency AND an offset motor for strong physical vibration. Two deterrent mechanisms working simultaneously — maximum discomfort for snakes, minimising risks of harm to humans and pets. Massive 40-Metre Diameter Coverage — The most powerful repeller available in Australia. One unit protects a 40-metre diameter — that's serious ground covered per device. Works Where Solar Can't — Four D-cell alkaline batteries deliver continuous 24/7 power for 6–8 months regardless of sunlight, shade, season or weather conditions. Ideal for under-building, shaded yards and protected zones. Variable Vibration Pattern — Alternating vibration and buzzing prevents snakes from habituating to a fixed pattern. They never get used to it because it keeps changing. Extra Protection in Soft Soils — Buzzing feature alternates with vibration to transmit through softer soils where pure vibration alone is less effective. Handles the full range of Australian ground conditions. Anodised Stem — Prevents corrosive mineralisation from soil contact — built for years of in-ground use without degrading. Weather Resistant — Tough, Aussie-conditions tested. Heat, humidity — these repellers keep running. 8th Generation Reliability — Continuously refined since 2008. More reliable, more adaptable and more powerful than any previous generation. 12-Month Warranty — Backed by our local Aussie team.  How to Install Insert the batteries — Open the battery compartment and load four D-cell alkaline batteries before deployment Choose your placement — Focus on shaded zones, perimeter lines and high-risk areas around the building Create the hole — Use a metal stake or shovel to create a hole big enough for the repeller, then push it firmly into position — level ground gives best vibration transmission Switch it on — The repeller activates immediately and runs continuously Space correctly — For full perimeter coverage, space units so their 40-metre diameter zones overlap slightly Apply LANOX (or a similar water dispersant formula) annually — A quick application of LANOX lanolin lubricant to internal components before the wet season extends the unit's lifespan significantly. If you anticipate flooding, bring the repellers inside until water recedes. Why Variable Frequency Matters Snakes don't hear sound the way we do (they don’t have ears!). Instead they rely on extraordinary sensitivity to ground vibration to detect movement, assess threat and decide whether to stay or flee. That's exactly what these repellers exploit. The variable frequency vibration mimics the footfall of large animals — an immediate danger signal to any snake in range. Critically, the pattern keeps changing, so snakes can't adapt to it or learn to ignore it. A fixed frequency repeller eventually stops working. A variable one doesn't. The unit also emits an audible buzz so you know it's operating. If the sound is an issue in your environment — near sleeping areas, animal pens or sensitive spaces — you can switch this feature off. Simply get in touch with our friendly customer service team for instructions.  Battery-powered units go where solar repellers can't. Shaded yards, dirt-floor sheds, under buildings, bushes, animal enclosures — anywhere that sees too little sun for a solar unit to charge reliably. Run them alongside solar-powered EnviroBug repellers in open areas and you eliminate the gaps, giving snakes nowhere to settle in.
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Aussie Tough Leg Protecting Snake Gaiters (One Pair) - Envirobug
Snake Gaiters — Aussie Tough Leg Bite Protection (One Pair) $109.00 $145.00
Australia hosts 8 of the world's 10 deadliest snakes. Farmers, bushwalkers, hikers, gardeners, campers -  one bite changes everything. Aussie Tough Gaiters cover vulnerable lower legs/feet with 1000D fabric + 12 polypropylene inserts per leg -80-90% of snake bites are to the limbs, including feet, ankles and lower legs. Blocks fangs, rocks, thorns, rain, dirt. Manufactured to perform and last in brutal Australian conditions. Please note: Snake resistant gaiters should be considered a last line of defence against venomous snakes. While they do provide significant resistance to bites, no snake gaiters should be considered “snake proof” and there is no guarantee that penetration could not occur in any circumstance. It is far better to not get too close to snakes in the first place! Key Features Anti-puncture defence: 1000D nylon prevents fangs/rocks 12 inserts/leg: Flexible poly blocks strikes Full weatherproof: Rain, mud, dirt, thorns no issue Breathable comfort: Active all-day wear Knee-ankle guard: 80% of snake attacks are to the feet, ankles and lower legs. Aussie rugged: Built for tough conditions Adjustable straps: Secure custom fit
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LANOX Lanolin Lubricant | 300gm - Envirobug
LANOX Lanolin Lubricant | 300gm $16.00 $19.00
LANOX Lanolin Lubricant, derived from high-grade oil and natural lanolin, stands as a superior, eco-friendly solution. LANOX offers outstanding protection against moisture and corrosion, crucial for snake repellers vulnerable to condensation and leaks in damp conditions. Applying LANOX spray annually safeguards internal components, effectively extending the lifespan of the repellers. Why Choose LANOX Lanolin Lubricant: Natural & Effective Protection: LANOX, with its lanolin-based formula, provides robust rust and corrosion protection, ensuring the longevity and functionality of snake repellers. Versatile Use: LANOX adapts to various operational demands, making it an ideal choice for snake repellers in any environment. Safety First: Free from harmful substances, LANOX ensures user safety and environmental friendliness, making it safe for use around homes and gardens. Superior Features: offers superior protection against moisture and corrosion, crucial for snake repellers which are water resistant, not water proof. Applying LANOX spray safeguards internal parts, extending the Snake repellers' lifespan. LANOX Lanolin Lubricant is a premium safeguard for your investments against harsh environmental elements. Its lanolin-based composition forms a durable shield, making it an indispensable asset for maintenance and preservation across diverse applications, including snake repellers.
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