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Red Belly Black: Poisonous Snakes of Australia

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The red-bellied black snake is venomous but rarely bites. It is distinctive for its shiny black color and red belly. It prefers moist areas and feeds on frogs, lizards and more. When hiking, avoid getting close and preserve nature.

red belly black

The head of the red-bellied black snake is barely distinguishable from the body as there is no obvious constricted neck area.

This snake is dangerously venomous, but bites are rare because it is usually a placid and quite docile snake, which prefers to rest in the sun. 

It grows to a length of 2,5 meters and is a very distinctive snake due to its simple and unchanging coloration.

The upper surface of this snake is shiny black, while the belly is light pink to bright red. The only other snake with a similar appearance is the small-eyed snake (Cryptophis nigrescens), but in this species the red color of the belly is not visible unless the snake is turned around, while the red of the black snake of red belly extends upward. the lower flanks.

red belly black

Red Belly Black Snake Habitat

The red-bellied black snake is commonly associated with streams, rivers, streams, swamps, and other wetland areas. They can wander through heavily vegetated private gardens that run alongside waterways.

The red-bellied black snake specializes in eating frogs, but will also eat lizards, mammals, birds, and occasionally fish.

Unlike other close relatives, the red-bellied ones produce their young alive. At birth they are usually wrapped in a thin transparent membrane, which tears easily when the little snake twists to free itself. Up to 20 can be produced in one litter.

This snake is known for its longevity, as it can live up to 20 years in its natural habitat.

Regarding its diet, it feeds mainly on small mammals, birds, reptiles and amphibians. Despite its venom, the Red Belly Black is not considered one of the most venomous snakes in Australia. On the other hand, other species such as the inland Taipan snake, the Brown snake and the northern Taipan snake are known to be more venomous and are found in different regions of Australia.

Hiking tips

When hiking it is important to inform yourself in advance of the trip about the local fauna and to have the phone number of the park rangers handy in case of emergency.

It is important to note that snakes do not listen, as they lack the sense of hearing. And those people who try to scare them away by making sounds are just wasting their time.

A tactic that does work if you walk in poisonous snake zone, is the one applied by the Australian aborigines, who, aware of the extreme sensitivity of snakes to vibrations, walk dragging their feet and stomping on the ground in dangerous areas.

Believe it or not, snakes do not seek to attack everything that moves. In fact they flee from the human being, and only in a few cases do bites occur; most of them accidentally stepping on bushes with snakes in them.

If you see a snake, it is important not to approach and let it pass. Perhaps you can drive it away with a stick or stone near where it is to alert of your proximity.

Never kill snakes simply because of your fear of them. Preserve nature as you find it in your path.

Another way to prevent or reduce the risk of bites is the use of gaiters or gators in knee-high boots. There is a great variety of them, from the "snake-proof" or the normal ones, which reduce the impact and consequences of the bites of these animals.

Frequently asked questions from our readers:

The Red Belly Black snake is a venomous species found in Australia. Its features include a black body with a distinctive red belly. Its venom is potent and can cause severe pain, swelling, and tissue damage. Although their bite can be dangerous, it is rarely fatal if medical attention is sought immediately. It is important to stay away from these snakes and seek professional help in the event of a bite. Read more here: https://www.equilibriumx.com/ecoturismo-y-conservacion/red-belly-black-serpientes-venenosas-de-australia
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Last modified: February 22, 2024