Acanthophis antarcticus

(Shaw, 1802)

Vernacular names
English : Common death adder
French : Vipère de la mort

Classification
Class : Reptilia
Order : Squamata
Family : Elapidae
Notes : No subspecies known.

Identification
Adults can reach a total length between 70 cm and 1 m. Thick body, flat triangular head. Prominent scales above eyes. Coloration variable, from light brown to almost black with darker transversal bands on body. Clear belly.

Range and habitat
The species is endemic to Australia and occurs in north-east, east and south parts of the country. Lives in forests, woodlands, grasslands and shrublands, mostly on lowlands.

Conservation
IUCN RED LIST : LEAST CONCERN
CITES : Not listed
Status : The species is fairly common in the wild. Possible persecution by fear of snakes could be a threat.
Ex-Situ Programs : None known

Observation

 

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