Australian Snake Bites brown Snake

Common or Eastern Brown Snake Pseudonaja textilisThe Brown Snake may be found all over Australia. It has extremely potent venom, and although the quantity of venom injected is usually small, this snake causes more snakebite deaths in Australia than any other. Sudden and relatively early deaths have been recorded. Its venom causes severe coagulation disturbances, neurotoxicity, and occasionally nephrotoxicity (by a direct action of the venom), but not rhabdomyolysis. The Gwardir is also known as the Western Brown snake, and the Dugite is a spotted brown snake found in Western Australia. All need brown snake antivenom

Western Brown SnakeDugite

Taipan Oxyuranus scuttelatusThe taipan may be found mostly along the non-desert areas of north and north-east Australia (from Brisbane to Darwin). It is an aggressive, large, slender snake, and may be coloured any shade of brown but always has a rectangular head (large in proportion to the body) and red eye. Venom output is high and causes neurotoxicity, coagulopathy, and rhabdomyolysis, and the amount retrieved from just one milking from one taipan is enough to kill many million mice. Paralysis is difficult to reverse unless treated early. Untreated, a good bite will almost certainly be fatal.taipanTiger Snake Notechis scutatusThe tiger snake lives in the temperate southern areas of Australia. The characteristic stripes are not seen all year round, and there is a totally black variant found around the Flinders Ranges area of South Australia. As well as neurotoxicity and coagulopathy, rhabdomyolysis (due to Notexin in the venom) is very likely if treatment is delayed. Untreated mortality is about 45%.eastern Tiger snake

Black tiger snake

Death Adder Acanthopis antarcticusThe death adder has strongly neurotoxic venom; coagulation defects are usually minor and rhabdomyolysis is almost never seen. The postsynaptic paralysis is easily reversed by antivenom. It has characteristic appearance and may be striped. Copperhead Austrelaps superbusThe copperhead is found in Tasmania, Victoria, and the western plains of NSW. Its venom has neurotoxic, coagulopthic and myotoxic actions, however, despite its large venom output, bites are rarely fatal. Use tiger snake antivenom.

Rough Scaled Snake Tropidechis carinatusThe rough scaled snake is found mostly in northeastern non-arid areas. It may be striped, and hence confused with the tiger snake. It is extremely ill-tempered, and has venom with neurotoxic, coagulopthic and myotoxic actions.King Brown or Mulga snake Pseudechis australisThe king brown (or mulga) snake is found in all arid parts of Australia, and has the greatest venom output, with neurotoxic, coagulopthic and myotoxic actions, but of relatively low toxicity. It has a strongly defined dark crosshatched pattern on its scales, and is more related to the black snakes than the brown. The king brown needs black snake antivenom.

Redbellied Black Snake Pseudechis porphyriacusThe redbellied black snake is found in all eastern non-arid areas. While the venom has neurotoxic, coagulopthic and myotoxic actions, it is not as potent as most, and no deaths after a redbellied black snake have yet been reported. Black or tiger antivenom may be used.Small Scaled or Fierce Snake Oxyuranus microlepidotusThe small scaled snake (sometimes called the inland taipan or fierce snake) has the most potent venom in the world, but is restricted to relatively uninhabited areas of south-western Queensland, so, fortunately, not many people get bitten. Use taipan antivenom. Signs and SymptomsThe bite site is usually painless. It may have classical paired fang marks, but this is not the most common picture. Often there are just a few lacerations or scratches, and sometimes these may be painless or go unnoticed. Bruising, bleeding, and local swelling may be present, but significant local tissue destruction is uncommon in Australia.Regional lymphadenopathy may be marked, even with non-venomous snake bites, and is not by itself an indication for the administration of antivenom. It may contribute to abdominal pain in children.The usual sequence of systemic symptom development goes something like this: (3hrs) Limb and respiratory muscle paralysis leading to respiratory failure, peripheral circulatory failure with pallor and cyanosis, myoglobinuria, eventually death.This sequence of events is highly variable. Brown snake bites, even apparently trivial ones, have been associated with acute deterioration over a five minute period leading to death. This may occur as soon as 30 minutes to an hour after the original bite. Acute, severe cardiac depression may be the mechanism for sudden death.Paralysis, when it occurs, usually commences with cranial nerves, then skeletal muscle, then the muscles of respiration. In small children or with highly venomous snake bites it may happen much more quickly.Major bleeding disturbances are, as mentioned before, rare with Australian snakes, although the development of coagulopathies and a DIC-like picture are relatively common. Thromboctopaenia and haemolysis may occur. Watch for haematuria, haemoptysis, haematemesis, low bowel haemmorrhage, menorrhagia or haemoglobinuria, and remember that about 20% of patients who die after snake bite have cerebral haemmorrhages.Muscle destruction from myolytic toxins is not uncommon and may not be associated with muscle tenderness; it may lead to renal failure and should be specifically looked for, because early treatment with antivenom will reduce its severity.Snake bite should always be considered in any case of unexpected confusion or loss of consciousness following outdoor activities in snake country. In Australia, snake venoms alone cause coagulopathy, so if present you can rule out other forms of envenomation.Prognosis depends on the type of snake and the quantity of venom injected. An angry snake and multiple bites is associated with greater venom volumes. Snake bites and domestic petsIan Westbrook describes, in this moving story, how an apparently trivial bite from a tiger snake caused the death of one of his dogs. In contrast, Donna describes her experience with a Death Adder bite.Murdoch University provides a 'pets in summer - snakebite warning' page with a number of pet safety and snake information sheets.

First Aid for Snake Bites:Do NOT wash the area of the bite!It is extremely important to retain traces of venom for use with venom identification kits!Stop lymphatic spread - bandage firmly, splint and immobilise!The "pressure-immobilisation" technique is currently recommended by the Australian Resuscitation Council, the Royal Australasian College of Surgeons and the Australian and New Zealand College of Anaesthetists.The lymphatic system is responsible for systemic spread of most venoms. This can be reduced by the application of a firm bandage (as firm as you would put on a sprained ankle) over a folded pad placed over the bitten area. While firm, it should not be so tight that it stops blood flow to the limb or to congests the veins. Start bandaging directly over the bitten area, ensuing that the pressure over the bite is firm and even. If you have enough bandage you can extend towards more central parts of the body, to delay spread of any venom that has already started to move centrally. A pressure dressing should be applied even if the bite is on the victims trunk or torso.Immobility is best attained by application of a splint or sling, using a bandage or whatever to hand to absolutely minimise all limb movement, reassurance and immobilisation (eg, putting the patient on a stretcher). Where possible, bring transportation to the patient (rather then vice versa). Don't allow the victim to walk or move a limb. Walking should be prevented.The pressure-immobilisation approach is simple, safe and will not cause iatrogenic tissue damage (ie, from incision, injection, freezing or arterial torniquets - all of which are ineffective).See the AVRU site for more details of bandaging techniques.Bites to the head, neck, and back are a special problem - firm pressure should be applied locally if possible.Removal of the bandage will be associated with rapid systemic spread. Hence ALWAYS wait until the patient is in a fully-equipped medical treatment area before bandage removal is attempted.Do NOT cut or excise the area or apply an arterial torniquet! Both these measures are ineffective and may make the situation worse.Joris Wijnker's Snakebite Productions has more information on envenomation and he can supply a suitable first aid kit and booklet.

Medical Management of Snake BitesOnly 1 in 20 snake bites require active emergency treatment or the administration of antivenom. Medical management depends on the degree of systemic envenomation and the type of venom.See also the AVRU site for more info on clincial assessment and management.Critically ill patients Maintain immobilisation, splint and bandage until the situation is under control! Support airway, breathing and circulation. Intubate and ventilate with 100% Oxygen if airway or respiration fail. Give antivenom immediately (See below for details). Intravenous adrenaline should be given only for lifethreatening hypotension or anaphylaxis - its use has been associated with cerebral haemorrhage. Volume expansion may be necessary. Severe coagulation disturbances, electrolyte abnormalities, and muscle damage leading to acute renal failure are likely. Repeat antivenom as clinically indicated. General management as for less seriously ill patients as well (see below). Less seriously ill patients - no signs of systemic spread Admit to ICU for non-invasive monitoring, strict bedrest and full head injury observations (wake hourly). Leave bandages in place. Obtain appropriate antivenoms and venom detection kit. Obtain intravenous access. Take blood for group and X-match, coagulation screen (including fibrinogen levels, and tests for DIC), full blood count, electrolytes and calcium, creatinine kinase and arterial blood gases. Perform ECG. Repeat at appropriate intervals. Collect urine for microscopy to detect haematuria and for free protein, haemoglobin and myoglobin measurement. Record urine output. Freeze the first sample for venom detection. Draw up adrenaline, antihistamine, and steroids in case of anaphylaxis to antivenom. When ready, cut a hole over the wound site, inspect and take swabs for use with the venom detection kit. Once the results of the venom detection kit are known, slowly and progressively remove the bandages. Don't rush! If systemic symptoms ensue: Re-apply bandages and give antivenom as clinically indicated. Ensure the patient is well hydrated (to reduce the risk of acute renal failure due to rhabdomyolysis). Repeat blood tests, ECG, etc at clinically relevant intervals. Correct abnormal coagulation; look out for disseminated intravascular coagulation (heparin probably contra-indicated in DIC from snake bite). Analgesia and sedation - be cautious. Correct hypotension, if present, with volume expansion and vasopressors (exclude occult bleeding). Watch for development of renal failure - monitor urine output and composition. Tetanus prohylaxis is recommended. Usually, if there are no signs of envenomation four hours after removal of the bandages, and if repeat blood tests taken at that time are normal, then it is probable that significant envenomation has not occurred. If laboratory tests are not available, 12 to 24 hours is a reasonable period of observation.Recovery is usually complete, though the patient usually develops a sensitivity to equine immunoglobulin.If the patient develops serum sickness (see below), the severity is reduced by steroid administration (eg. prednisolone 1mg/kg every 8 hours) until resolution occurs. A course of steroids is recommended in all patients who receive polyvalent antivenoms.

Antivenoms and Pre-TreatmentAntivenom should be given to all patients who exhibit signs of systemic spread.If possible choose the appropriate antivenom. Snake identification is unreliable (unless the person works with snakes or was bitten in a zoo and they know what bit them!). Venom detection kits (instructions) may be helpful; if in doubt use tiger snake antivenom in Tasmania, tiger and brown snake antivenom in Victoria, and polyvalent antivenom in all other states and New Guinea or see the AVRU guidelines. One ampoule (50ml of 17% protein) should neutralise the average venom yield from milking a snake of that species, and is usually enough for all but the most severe envenomations. Severe bites may require much more and a recent in vitro study (Sprivulis, Jelinek and Marshall. Anaesthesia and Intensive Care 1996; 24: 379-381) suggests that much more is also required to neutralize the procoagulant effects of Brown and Tiger snakes (up to 20 times the recommended dose!). If the situation allows, antivenoms should be given slowly (over half an hour, diluted in an IV fluid). A test dose may be advisable, particularly following prior exposure to equine protein.The AVRU site provides detailed antivenom dosage information and info on dosage, administration, premedication, serum sickness, and suggested quantities to be held by hospitals.Antivenoms are prepared from horse serum. The risk of anaphylaxis is very low (less than 1% even for polyvalent antivenoms), but is increased in people who have had prior exposure to horses, equine tetanus vaccines, and a general allergic history. This increased risk is much more common in people aged 50 years or more. About 4% of all administrations are associated with minor reactions.Pre-treatment with a non-sedating anti-histamine (ie, promethazine 0.25 mg/kg), subcutaneous adrenaline (0.25mg for adults, 0.01mg/kg for children), and iv steroids (hydrocortisone 2mg/kg) is still recommended, athough severe reactions are rare. In general the risk from the snake toxins is much greater than the risk of administering the antivenom.Each State in Australia has a specifically formulated polyvalent antivenom to suit local snake species, however it is preferable to use a snake-specific antivenom whenever possible to reduce the chance of reactions. Details of which antivenom to use varies from state to state, and are found with the packs and test kits.If an antivenom is administered, ALWAYS advise the patient of the possibility of delayed serum sickness (up to 14 days later). This is characterised by fever, rash, generalised lymphadenopathy, aching joints and renal impairment. The likelihood of developing this depends on the volume of antivenom required. It occurs in about 10% of patients who are given polyvalent antivenoms. Treatment with steroids is usually all that is needed.Supplies of antivenoms may be obtained from Commonwealth Serum Laboratories, Australia. Struan Sutherland has suggested that metropolitan and regional hospitals should keep 4 ampoules of polyvalent antivenom and 4 ampoules for each type of snake that is found in the area. He also suggested that smaller centers should stock enough antivenom, as approprite for the local snake population, to manage one bite, unless the incidence of snakebite is unusually high or low in that area. In southern Victoria a combination of tiger (3000 units) and brown snake (1000 units) antivenoms can be used where the identity of the snake is unknown, and in Tasmania tiger snake antivenom alone (6000 units) is suitable. Shelf life is 3 years when stored in a refrigerator. Antivenoms should not be frozen.Other pages of interest include my general envenomations page (links to other information sources, antivenoms etc) and my pages on Australian spider and marine envenomation.Bardick

A small venomous snake morphologically similar to a death adder that attains a maximum length of 70 cm. Large individuals potentially dangerous to children - the venom of this species is also death adder-like. Restricted to southern parts, north to Greenough and Peak Charles, then coastal on Nullarbor.

Two colour morphs of the Bardick (Echiopsis curta) from Lort River, WABlack-striped Snake & Black-naped Snake

Small harmless, mildly venomous snakes found over much of the southern half of Australia. They spend much of their time beneath the ground, but may be encountered on the surface at night.

A Black-striped Snake (Neelaps calonotus) from Ellenbrook, WA. Restricted to the coastal sandplain between Dongara and Mandurah.

A Black-naped Snake (Neelaps bimaculatus) from Dongara, WA. It is far more widespread than the Black-striped Snake.Blind SnakesA family of harmless, specialized burrowing snakes that feed on invertebrates, attain less than 50 cm in length and have well-developed anal glands they can really pack a pong. Usually associated with ants. Three species are illustrated below.

Beaked Blind Snake (Ramphotyphlops waitii) from Dongara, Western Australia

Southern Blind Snake (Ramphotyphlops australis) from Mount Helena, Western Australia

Black-tipped Blind Snake (Ramphotyphlops grypus) from Port Hedland, Western AustraliaA small venomous snake restricted to the southern (south of Perth) coastal (mainly) areas that attains a maximum length of about 70 cm. Large individuals potentially dangerous to children.

Large adult female Crowned Snake (Elapognathus coronatus) that measured an exceptional 74 cm from Lort River, WADugite or Spotted Brown Snake (Pseudonaja affinis)

A dangerously venomous snake with a wide variation in colour and pattern - several colour morphs are illustrated below.

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Neonatal Dugite (Pseudonaja affinis) from near Perth, Western Australia

In southern Western Australia large numbers of hatchling dugites occur mid-February through to mid-April. These are 15-35 cm in length and can be brown, green or yellowish in colour, but always hatch with at least part of the head black. Although best treated with caution, the bite from a juvenile is unlikely to cause more than local symptoms in a healthy adult. Potentially dangerous to children and pets.They may find there way into the house via the drain from the laundry, bathroom and toilet floor - check these to ensure the vermin exclusion flap swings freely and is not fouled with soil or vegetation. If encountered in the house, their small size allows for the safe scooping into a box or similar for relocation elsewhere.Few hatchlings survive the first few months - spiders, scorpions, centipedes, birds, lizards, cats and people are some of the predators they must contend with.The dugite is one of seven species and two subspecies of brownsnake (genus Pseudonaja) found in Australia. The juveniles of all of these are very similar, sharing the dark head-blotch (or blotches). Many individuals are adorned with numerous dark crossbands.Other Brownsnakes:-Ingram's Brown Snake - Queensland, Northern Territory and Western AustraliaPeninsula Brown Snake - South AustraliaSpeckled Brown Snake - Queensland, Northern Territory and South AustraliaRinged Brown Snake - All states except Tasmania and VictoriaWestern Brown Snake (Also called Gwardar in WA) - All States except TasmaniaEastern Brown Snake - All States except Tasmania. In Western Australia, only known from Gordon Downs Station (individual collected by Dr Paul Horner).

Golden Tree Snake

A slender, solid-toothed harmless snake that varies considerably in colour. Many Kimberley individuals are golden and referred to as "bronzeback", however olive-green, blue and black individuals occur. It attains a maximum length of 170 cm. It spends much of its life off the ground gliding through foliage hunting for frogs and lizards.

A Golden Tree Snake (Dendrelaphis punctulata) from Broome, WA

Gwardar or Western Brown Snake (Pseudonaja nuchalis)

A dangerously venomous snake with tremendous variation in colour and pattern - some colour morphs are illustrated below. This snake is very abundant in close proximity to human dwellings and is involved in most snakebite deaths in Western Australia (six of last ten fatalities attributed to snakes).

Courtship - both individuals are dark coloured, but it is not unusual to see different coloured morphs mating or fighting.

Neonatal Gwardar - note dark head typical of young brown snakes.

Southern Half-girdled Snake

A small harmless, although technically venomous, snake that attains a maximum length of 35 cm. It spends much of its life below ground and feeds on small leathery-shelled reptile eggs.

A Southern Half-girdled Snake (Brachyurophis semifasciata) from Parkerville, WA

Hooded Snakes Genus Parasuta

An assemblage of small venomous snakes with shiny black head and immaculate pearly-white belly (except some individuals of P. s. nullarbor) that attain a maximum length of 60 cm. Large individuals potentially dangerous to children - the venom of some species (ie P. gouldii) may cause a false positive for tiger snake when using a venom detection kit (VDK).

Gould's Hooded Snake (P. gouldii) from Stoneville, WA

Black-backed Hooded Snake (P. nigriceps) from Lort River, WA

Bush's Hooded Snake (P. s. bushi) from Scadden, WA

Goldfields Hooded Snake (P. monachus) from Menzies, WA

Lake Cronin Snake

A small (to 60 cm) potentially dangerous venomous snake from the inland freshwater mallee lakes, eucalypt woodlands and granite outcrops from Lake Cronin (80k east of Hyden), east to Salmon Gums, Peak Charles and Peak Eleanora.

Lake Cronin Snake (Paroplocephalus atriceps) from Peak Eleanora.

Lake Cronin Snake (Paroplocephalus atriceps) from Forrestania area.

Little Spotted Snake

A small nocturnal venomous snake restricted to the Pilbara and Kimberley Regions in WA. Attains a maximum length of about 70 cm. Large individuals potentially dangerous, especially to children. It can be quite a pugnacious little beast when stirred up.

A Little Spotted Snake (Suta punctata) from 50 kilometres north of Port Hedland, WA

Masters Snake

A very small (to 35 cm) mildly venomous snake from the southern coastal area east of Esperance.

Masters Snake (Drysdalia mastersii) from Wittenoom Hills Station

Moon or Orange-naped Snake

A small harmless, although technically venomous, snake that attains a maximum length of 75 cm. It is nocturnal and feeds on lizards.

A Moon Snake (Furina ornata) from Leinster, WANarrow-banded Burrowing Snake

A small harmless, although technically venomous, snake that attains a maximum length of 35 cm. It spends much of its life beneath the ground, is nocturnal and feeds on lizards.

A Narrow-banded Burrowing Snake (Brachyurophis fasciolata) from Menzies, WA

PythonsThe best known of Australia's non-venomous snakes, varying in size from 60 cm to 600 cm, they are found from the islands in the Southern Ocean to the northern Kimberley and beyond.

Black-headed Python (Aspidites melanocephalus) from Sandfire, Western Australia

Woma or Sand Python (Aspidites ramsayi) from Port Hedland, Western Australia

Pygmy Python (Antaresia perthensis) from Harding Dam, Western Australia

Stimson's Python (Antaresia stimsoni stimsoni) from Broome, Western Australia

South-western Carpet Python (Morelia spilota imbricata) from Two Rocks, Western Australia

Olive Python (Liasis olivaceus) from Kimberley Region, Western Australia

Ringed Brown SnakeThe smallest member of the brownsnake group (to 50 cm) and therefore should be treated as a potentially dangerous venomous snake. Active both day and night, lays eggs and feeds on lizards. Absent from the southern and south coastal areas.

A well-marked subadult Ringed Brown Snake (Pseudonaja modesta) from Broad Arrow, Western Australia

A poorly-marked adult Ringed Brown Snake (Pseudonaja modesta) from Mt Keith, Western Australia

A clutch of juvenile Ringed Brown Snakes (Pseudonaja modesta) from Meekatharra, Western Australia

Rosens SnakeA medium-sized (to 65 cm) mildly venomous snake with a python-like pattern and distinctly unusual eyes. Active at night. Individuals illustrated below from southern population, although quite variable, many are very pale. The Pilbara population is rich reddish-brown in colour.

Rosens Snake (Suta fasciata) from Kalgoorlie, Western Australia

Rosens Snake (Suta fasciata) from Sandstone, Western Australia

Sand Snakes (Simoselaps bertholdi and littoralis)

Very small (to 35 cm) generally harmless, mildly venomous sand burrowing snakes that feed on lizards. Some people may experience extreme symptoms if predisposed to being allergic.

A Banded Sand Snake (Simoselaps bertholdi) from Caversham, WA

A West-coast Banded Sand Snake (Simoselaps littoralis) from Gnaraloo, WA

Short-nosed Sedge SnakeA very small (to 35 cm) mildly venomous snake from the extreme south-west corner of WA. It is a diurnal hunter of very small frogs.

Short-nosed Sedge Snake (Elaphognathus minor) from Rocky Gulley, WA

Square-nosed Snake

A small venomous snake unlikely to cause too much discomfort to an adult bitten apart from local swelling. snake that attains a maximum length of 45 cm. It is nocturnal, feeds on lizards and is often found hiding in stick-ants nests.

A pale Square-nosed Snake (Rhinoplocephalus bicolor) from Lort River, WA

Tiger Snake

A dangerously venomous snake from the southern and south coastal areas, inland onto the Darling Range and north to near Gin Gin.

Tiger Snake (Notechis scutatus) from Perth

Tiger Snake (Notechis scutatus) from Coomalbidgup, via Esperance, WA

Whip Snakes (Genus Demansia)This group of slender, fast-moving, diurnal, lizard-eating snakes is represented by at least one species in most parts of mainland Australia. Although unlikely to cause more than passing discomfort to an adult, large specimens are possibly dangerous to children. All but one species attain less than one metre in length.

Coppertail, Two-toned Snake, Green Whip Snake and Reticulated Whip Snake are all common names applied to this widespread species (Demansia psammophis reticulata). The above specimen was photographed at Nullagine, WA shortly after it had deposited a clutch of eggs - note the stretch marks!

The Black-necked Whip Snake (Demansia calodera) is restricted to the central west coast. The above specimen is from Carnarvon, WA.

The Red or Rufous Whip Snake (Demansia rufescens) is found through most of the Pilbara. The above specimen is from Dampier, WA.

Legless Lizards Family Pygopodidae

Legless lizards are a large family of snake-like lizards that are considered by some to be the ecological equivelants of the solid-toothed, harmless snakes, which are poorly represented in Oz but largest family elsewhere. Some can attain almost 60 cm in length and the Common Scaly-foot has been recorded over 75 cm in length. As with all Oz lizards they are nonvenomous.Legless lizards have evolved an elongate, limbless form more recently than snakes, therefore all retain some primitive characteristics. A combination of 2 of the following confirms it is a lizard:

1 - Broad, fleshy tongue 2 - Ear-opening behind eye 3 - Two or more rows of belly scales 4 - Tail as long as to much longer than body 5 - If uniform body pattern present, then longitudinal (stripes versus crossbands in Oz snakes.

Southwest Sandplain Worm Lizard (Aprasia repens) Northam, WA A common burrowing legless lizard dug up in gardens in Perth.

Javelin Lizard (Aclys concinna) from west of Marchagee, WA

Sharp-snouted Snake Lizard (Lialis burtonis)) from Menzies, WA

Fraser's Delma (Delma fraseri)) hatchlings from Lort River, WA

Common Scaly-foot (Pygopus lepidopodus) from Lort River, WA showing polymorhism

Hooded Scaly-foot (Pygopus nigriceps) from Broad Arrow, WAThe Australian Pressure Immobilisation method of First AidThis method of first aid was developed after clinical and laboratory experience showed that most venom seemed to be transported from the bite site, to the rest of the body, in lymphatic vessels. The technique is designed to slow or stop flow in lymphatic vessels in the bitten limb. It can only be used on limbs, NOT on the body, neck or head. While local pressure over the bite site, then the rest of the bitten limb is an important part of the first aid, it is probably immobilisation of the bitten limb which is crucial to the success of this first aid technique.In Australia, where venom detection from the skin is an important hospital test, it is vital that the bite area is not washed of cleaned in any way.The technique for pressure immobilisation first aid is as follows:If the bite is on a limb, a broad bandage (even torn strips of clothing or pantyhose) should be applied over the bitten area at moderate pressure (as for a sprain; not so tight circulation is impaired), then extended to cover as much of the bitten limb as possible, including fingers or toes, going over the top of clothing rather than risking excessive limb movement by removing clothing. The bitten limb should then be immobilised as effectively as possible using an extemporised splint or sling.

First Aid

Description:First aid for Australian and New Guinean snakebites

Details:1. After ensuring the patient and onlookers have moved out of range of further strikes by the snake, the bitten person should be reassured and persuaded to lie down and remain still. Many will be terrified, fearing sudden death and, in this mood, they may behave irrationally or even hysterically. The basis for reassurance is the fact that many venomous bites do not result in envenoming, the relatively slow progression to severe envenoming (hours following elapid bites, days following viper bites) and the effectiveness of modern medical treatment. 2. The bite wound should not be tampered with in any way. The wound must not be wiped or cleaned in any way, as this may interfere with later venom detection and the wound must not be massaged.3. All rings or other jewellery on the bitten limb, especially on fingers, should be removed, as they may act as tourniquets if oedema develops. 4. If the bite is on a limb, a broad bandage (even torn strips of clothing or pantyhose) should be applied over the bitten area at moderate pressure (as for a sprain; not so tight circulation is impaired), then extended to cover as much of the bitten limb as possible, including fingers or toes, going over the top of clothing rather than risking excessive limb movement by removing clothing. The bitten limb should then be immobilised as effectively as possible using an extemporised splint or sling. 5. If there is any impairment of vital functions, such as problems with respiration, airway, circulation, heart function, these must be supported as a priority. In particular, for bites causing flaccid paralysis, including respiratory paralysis, both airway and respiration may be impaired, requiring urgent and prolonged treatment, which may include the mouth to mask (mouth to mouth) technique of expired air transfer. Seek urgent medical attention.6. Do not use Tourniquets, cut, suck or scarify the wound or apply chemicals or electric shock.7. Avoid peroral intake, absolutely no alcohol. No sedatives outside hospital. If there will be considerable delay before reaching medical aid, measured in several hours to days, then give clear fluids by mouth to prevent dehydration.8. If the offending snake has been killed it should be brought with the patient for identification (only relevant in areas where there are more than one naturally occurring venomous snake species), but be careful to avoid touching the head, as even a dead snake can envenom. No attempt should be made to pursue the snake into the undergrowth as this will risk further bites. In Australia and parts of New Guinea, Snake Venom Detection Kits are available to identify the snake from venom left on the skin.9. The snakebite victim should be transported as quickly and as passively as possible to the nearest place where they can be seen by a medically-trained person (health station, dispensary, clinic or hospital). The bitten limb must not be exercised as muscular contraction will promote systemic absorption of venom. If no motor vehicle or boat is available, the patient can be carried on a stretcher or hurdle, on the pillion or crossbar of a bicycle or on someone's back. 10. Most traditional, and many of the more recently fashionable, first aid measures are useless and potentially dangerous. These include local cauterization, incision, excision, amputation, suction by mouth, vacuum pump or syringe, combined incision and suction ("venom-ex" apparatus), injection or instillation of compounds such as potassium permanganate, phenol (carbolic soap) and trypsin, application of electric shocks or ice (cryotherapy), use of traditional herbal, folk and other remedies including the ingestion of emetic plant products and parts of the snake, multiple incisions, tattooing and so on.

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First Aid

Description:First aid for Tick bites (paralysis ticks)

Details:1. The primary purpose of first aid in envenoming is to prevent the systemic spread of venom from the site of inoculation, and limit any deleterious local effects of envenoming. In tick paralysis, neither of these two objectives is likely to be met by first aid, as by the time there is clinical evidence of envenoming the salivary venom has already attained widespread body distribution and the local effects are, in comparison, minor. Hence prevention of envenoming by avoidance of bites, and regular body searches while at risk, to expeditiously remove ticks, are of more value than first aid. 2. In the case of a person, usually a child, developing the early symptoms and signs of paralysis, first aid should be directed towards getting the child to medical care quickly, and maintenance of vital functions, if imperilled. Particularly watch for developing bulbar and respiratory paralysis, keep the patient fasted, and nurse on the side to avoid the chance of aspiration of vomitus.3. If there is any impairment of vital functions, such as problems with respiration, airway, circulation, heart function, these must be supported as a priority. In particular, for bites causing flaccid paralysis, including respiratory paralysis, both airway and respiration may be impaired, requiring urgent and prolonged treatment, which may include the mouth to mask (mouth to mouth) technique of expired air transfer. Seek urgent medical attention.4. Do not use Tourniquets, cut, suck or scarify the wound or apply chemicals or electric shock.5. If there is any evidence of developing paralysis, avoid peroral intake, absolutely no alcohol. No sedatives outside hospital. If there will be considerable delay before reaching medical aid, measured in several hours to days, then give clear fluids by mouth to prevent dehydration.6. If there is any evidence of significant envenoming, such as difficulty walking or signs of paralysis, the patient should be transported as quickly and as passively as possible to the nearest place where they can be seen by a medically-trained person (health station, dispensary, clinic or hospital). 7. If the tick is present, kill it by swabbing it with alcohol, methylated spirits, turpentine, or kerosene. Avoid pressing the tick's body as more venom might be discharged. If a fine pair of forceps (tweezers) are available, remove the tick by holding the proboscis (mouth-parts) and gently pulling. Usually the mouth-parts come away intact and there will be no inflammation, but it is sometimes necessary for a medical practitioner to cut the embedded mouth-parts out of a small portion of skin.Patients with inaccessible ticks such as in the ear should be referred to a hospital.

First Aid

Description:First aid for Funnel Web Spider Bites (Australia)

Details:1. If the spider is still attached, immediately remove it, being careful not to sustain further bites, and place to spider in a jam jar or other container, so it may be brought to the hospital for identification.2. After ensuring the patient and onlookers are no longer at risk of further bites by the spider, the bitten person should be reassured and persuaded to lie down and remain still. Many will be terrified, fearing sudden death and, in this mood, they may behave irrationally or even hysterically. The basis for reassurance is the fact that many bites do not result in envenoming, and the effectiveness of modern medical treatment. 3. The bite wound should not be tampered with in any way. 4. If the bite is on a limb, a broad bandage (even torn strips of clothing or pantyhose) should be applied over the bitten area at moderate pressure (as for a sprain; not so tight circulation is impaired), then extended to cover as much of the bitten limb as possible, including fingers or toes, going over the top of clothing rather than risking excessive limb movement by removing clothing. The bitten limb should then be immobilised as effectively as possible using an extemporised splint or sling. 5. If there is any impairment of vital functions, such as problems with respiration, airway, circulation, heart function, these must be supported as a priority. In particular, both airway and respiration may be impaired, requiring urgent and prolonged treatment, which may include the mouth to mask (mouth to mouth) technique of expired air transfer. Seek urgent medical attention.6. Do not use Tourniquets, cut, suck or scarify the wound or apply chemicals or electric shock.7. Avoid peroral intake, absolutely no alcohol. No sedatives outside hospital. If there will be considerable delay before reaching medical aid, measured in several hours to days, then give clear fluids by mouth to prevent dehydration.8. If the offending spider has been killed or caught it should be brought with the patient for identification. Many relatively harmless spiders may appear similar to the funnel web spiders and there are several species of funnel web spiders, so identification of the spider is important. 9. The spider bite victim should be transported as quickly and as passively as possible to the nearest place where they can be seen by a medically-trained person (health station, dispensary, clinic or hospital). The bitten limb must not be exercised as muscular contraction will promote systemic absorption of venom. If no motor vehicle or boat is available, the patient can be carried on a stretcher or hurdle, on the pillion or crossbar of a bicycle or on someone's back. 10. Most traditional, and many of the more recently fashionable, first aid measures are useless and potentially dangerous. These include local cauterization, incision, excision, amputation, suction by mouth, vacuum pump or syringe, combined incision and suction ("venom-ex" apparatus), injection or instillation of compounds such as potassium permanganate, phenol (carbolic soap) and trypsin, application of electric shocks or ice (cryotherapy), use of traditional herbal, folk and other remedies including the ingestion of emetic plant products and parts of the snake, multiple incisions, tattooing and so on.

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First Aid

Description:First aid for Widow Spider Bites (includes Australian red back spider)

Details:1. After ensuring the patient and onlookers are no longer at risk of further bites by the spider, the bitten person should be reassured and persuaded to lie down and remain still. Some will be terrified, fearing sudden death and, in this mood, they may behave irrationally or even hysterically. The basis for reassurance is the fact that many bites do not result in envenoming, death is a very rare outcome, and the effectiveness of modern medical treatment. 2. The bite wound should not be tampered with in any way.3. Some victims find the application of a local cold pack may relieve local pain.4. Do not apply a local bandage, tourniquet, or cut or suck or incise the wound or apply electric shock. Application of local heat has not proved beneficial. 5. If there is any impairment of vital functions, such as problems with respiration, airway, circulation, heart function, these must be supported as a priority. In particular, both airway and respiration may be impaired, requiring urgent and prolonged treatment, which may include the mouth to mask (mouth to mouth) technique of expired air transfer. Seek urgent medical attention.6. If the offending spider has been killed or caught it should be brought with the patient for identification. 7. Avoid peroral intake, other than clear fluids, in the first 6 hours, absolutely no alcohol. No sedatives outside hospital. If there will be considerable delay before reaching medical aid, measured in several hours to days, then give clear fluids by mouth to prevent dehydration.8. Most traditional, and many of the more recently fashionable, first aid measures are useless and potentially dangerous. These include local cauterization, incision, excision, amputation, suction by mouth, vacuum pump or syringe, combined incision and suction ("venom-ex" apparatus), injection or instillation of compounds such as potassium permanganate, phenol (carbolic soap) and trypsin, application of electric shocks or ice (cryotherapy), use of traditional herbal, folk and other remedies including the ingestion of emetic plant products and parts of the snake, multiple incisions, tattooing and so on.

Common or Eastern Brown Snake Pseudonaja textilis Found all over Australia. This snake has extremely potent venom, despite only a injecting a small quantity of venom. Responsible for more snakebite deaths in Australia than any other type of snake. Sudden and relatively early deaths have been recorded. Habitat: Forests and woodlands, heath. Status: Common Size: 2 m

Taipan Oxyuranus scuttelatusFound mostly along the non-desert areas of north and north-east Australia (from Brisbane to Darwin). A large, slender aggressive snake. Colouring may be any shade of brown. Always has a rectangular head that is large in proportion to the body. Venom deposit is high. Paralysis is difficult to reverse if not treated early. Left untreated, a bite will almost always be fatal. Habitat: Forests and woodlands. Status: Common Size: Over 2.8 mTRIVIA - The amount of venom retrieved from just one milking from one taipan is sufficient to kill many million mice.

Tiger Snake Notechis scutatusThe tiger snake lives in the temperate southern areas of Australia, extending down the east coast from around Brisbane and along the west coast north of Perth. Dependent upon time of year and age of the snake, the characteristic stripes are not seen all year round. A totally black variant is found around the Flinders Ranges area of South Australia. The mortality rate of untreated bites is around 45%. Habitat: Moist, even swampy environments Status: Common Size: Up to 2 m.Death Adder Acanthopis antarcticusThe death adder is a smaller snake, averaging around 600mm long , but up to 1.1m in some areas. Has a distinctive diamond shaped head with a thickened body tapering to a short stubby tail. Rapid strikers and may bite several times. It may be striped.Habitat: Most of mainland Australia, except Victoria Status: Common Size: 1.1 mTRIVIADespite being one of the most dangerous snakes in Australia and the world, the venom from Cane Toads can kill Common Death Adders.

Rough Scaled Snake Tropidechis carinatusThe rough scaled snake is found mostly in non arid coastal areas of Northern NSW and Southern Queensland. It may be striped, and hence confused with the tiger snake. It is extremely ill-tempered. Known to climb. Habitat: Moist habitats including creek banks and rain forest. Status: Common in some areas Size: Up to 1.07 m

Copperhead Austrelaps superbusThe copperhead is found in Tasmania, Victoria, and the western plains of NSW. Despite its large venom output, bites are rarely fatal. Habitat: Swampy or marshy areas Status:Common Size: Up to 1.5 m

King Brown or Mulga Snake Pseudechis australisThe king brown (or mulga) snake is found in all arid parts of Australia, and has the greatest venom output, but with relatively low toxicity. It has a strongly defined dark crosshatched pattern on its scales. Is more closely related to the black snakes than the brown. Habitat: Arid areas Status: Common Size: Up to 2.5 m

Small Scaled or Fierce Snake Oxyuranus microlepidotusThe small scaled snake (sometimes called the inland taipan or fierce snake) has the most potent venom in the world. Largely restricted to relatively uninhabited areas of south-western Queensland. Due to its remoteness, few people get bitten. Use taipan antivenom.Habitat: Sparsely populated black soil floodplains of south-west Queensland and adjacent areas in South Australia. Status: Rarely encountered Size: Up to 2.5 m

Redbellied Black Snake Pseudechis porphyriacusThe redbellied Back snake is found in all eastern non-arid areas. The venom is not as potent as most. This snake is one of the most common on the south coast of Australia. Habitat: Forests and woodlands and grassy areas. Status: Common Size: Up to 2 m.

This material is subject to copyright. No reproduction, copying, altering or transmission of the above information is permitted without the prior written consent of the copyright owner.

Common or Eastern Brown Snake Pseudonaja textilis Found all over Australia. This snake has extremely potent venom, despite only a injecting a small quantity of venom. Responsible for more snakebite deaths in Australia than any other type of snake. Sudden and relatively early deaths have been recorded. Habitat: Forests and woodlands, heath. Status: Common Size: 2 m

Taipan Oxyuranus scuttelatusFound mostly along the non-desert areas of north and north-east Australia (from Brisbane to Darwin). A large, slender aggressive snake. Colouring may be any shade of brown. Always has a rectangular head that is large in proportion to the body. Venom deposit is high. Paralysis is difficult to reverse if not treated early. Left untreated, a bite will almost always be fatal. Habitat: Forests and woodlands. Status: Common Size: Over 2.8 mTRIVIA - The amount of venom retrieved from just one milking from one taipan is sufficient to kill many million mice.

Tiger Snake Notechis scutatusThe tiger snake lives in the temperate southern areas of Australia, extending down the east coast from around Brisbane and along the west coast north of Perth. Dependent upon time of year and age of the snake, the characteristic stripes are not seen all year round. A totally black variant is found around the Flinders Ranges area of South Australia. The mortality rate of untreated bites is around 45%. Habitat: Moist, even swampy environments Status: Common Size: Up to 2 m.Death Adder Acanthopis antarcticusThe death adder is a smaller snake, averaging around 600mm long , but up to 1.1m in some areas. Has a distinctive diamond shaped head with a thickened body tapering to a short stubby tail. Rapid strikers and may bite several times. It may be striped.Habitat: Most of mainland Australia, except Victoria Status: Common Size: 1.1 mTRIVIADespite being one of the most dangerous snakes in Australia and the world, the venom from Cane Toads can kill Common Death Adders.

Rough Scaled Snake Tropidechis carinatusThe rough scaled snake is found mostly in non arid coastal areas of Northern NSW and Southern Queensland. It may be striped, and hence confused with the tiger snake. It is extremely ill-tempered. Known to climb. Habitat: Moist habitats including creek banks and rain forest. Status: Common in some areas Size: Up to 1.07 m

Copperhead Austrelaps superbusThe copperhead is found in Tasmania, Victoria, and the western plains of NSW. Despite its large venom output, bites are rarely fatal. Habitat: Swampy or marshy areas Status:Common Size: Up to 1.5 m

King Brown or Mulga Snake Pseudechis australisThe king brown (or mulga) snake is found in all arid parts of Australia, and has the greatest venom output, but with relatively low toxicity. It has a strongly defined dark crosshatched pattern on its scales. Is more closely related to the black snakes than the brown. Habitat: Arid areas Status: Common Size: Up to 2.5 m

Small Scaled or Fierce Snake Oxyuranus microlepidotusThe small scaled snake (sometimes called the inland taipan or fierce snake) has the most potent venom in the world. Largely restricted to relatively uninhabited areas of south-western Queensland. Due to its remoteness, few people get bitten. Use taipan antivenom.Habitat: Sparsely populated black soil floodplains of south-west Queensland and adjacent areas in South Australia. Status: Rarely encountered Size: Up to 2.5 m

Redbellied Black Snake Pseudechis porphyriacusThe redbellied Back snake is found in all eastern non-arid areas. The venom is not as potent as most. This snake is one of the most common on the south coast of Australia. Habitat: Forests and woodlands and grassy areas. Status: Common Size: Up to 2 m.

This material is subject to copyright. No reproduction, copying, altering or transmission of the above information is permitted without the prior written consent of the copyright owner.

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