Top 10 Deadly Snakes You Should Definitely Avoid

Snakes have long been a symbol of danger, and for good reason. The world is home to many venomous snakes, some of which possess venom so potent it can kill within minutes. Here’s a look at the top 10 most venomous snakes, based on the strength of their venom and the threat they pose to humans. Maybe next time it might just be worth staying at home and watching Netflix.

1. Inland Taipan: The Fiercest of All

The Inland Taipan, also known as the “fierce snake,” is considered the most venomous snake on Earth. Native to Australia’s remote regions, this snake’s venom can kill a human in under an hour. Fortunately, it is shy and rarely encountered by people. The Inland Taipan’s venom is neurotoxic, capable of causing paralysis and death by respiratory failure. Why is everything in Australia so dangerous?

2. King Cobra: The Longest Venomous Snake

The King Cobra, reaching lengths of up to 18 feet, is the longest venomous snake in the world. Found primarily in India and Southeast Asia, its venom contains neurotoxins that can kill an adult elephant. Although the King Cobra is deadly, it avoids humans and often warns intruders with a hood display and loud hissing.

3. Black Mamba: Africa’s Speedy Killer

The Black Mamba, notorious for its speed and aggression, is one of Africa’s deadliest snakes. It can move at speeds of up to 12 mph and deliver multiple venomous bites in a single strike. At that speed, it’s unlikely that the average person will be able to outpace this snake for very long. Its neurotoxic venom can cause death within 20 minutes if untreated. The Black Mamba inhabits large swaths of sub-Saharan Africa, preferring savannas and woodlands.

4. Boomslang: A Small Snake with Deadly Hemotoxins

The Boomslang, native to Africa, is one of the most venomous rear-fanged snakes. Its venom causes severe internal bleeding, leading to death if not treated promptly. The Boomslang is generally non-aggressive and only bites when threatened. Despite its small size, its venom is potent enough to kill a human with a single bite. This snake is actually rather common on hikes through the highveld, especially if there is a conopy of trees.

5. Saw-Scaled Viper: The Silent Assassin

The Saw-Scaled Viper is responsible for more human deaths than any other snake! Found in India, the Middle East, and Africa, this small but aggressive snake delivers a venomous bite that causes severe bleeding and tissue damage. Its venom contains hemotoxins that can cause fatal internal bleeding. Despite its deadly nature, it remains elusive and hard to spot.

6. Eastern Brown Snake: Australia’s Stealthy Threat

The Eastern Brown Snake is Australia’s second-most venomous snake and is responsible for most snakebite deaths in the country. Its venom contains both neurotoxins and blood coagulants, making it especially dangerous. The Eastern Brown is highly aggressive and will defend itself if threatened, often striking multiple times. Best to leave this one to the professionals.

7. Coastal Taipan: Fast and Lethal

The Coastal Taipan, found in Australia and New Guinea, is one of the fastest and deadliest snakes. Its venom contains powerful neurotoxins and coagulants that can kill a human in less than an hour. The Coastal Taipan is highly aggressive and will not hesitate to strike when provoked. This snake is also the second longest venomous snake in Australia, reaching over 6.6ft long.

8. Fer-de-Lance: Central America’s Viper of Doom

The Fer-de-Lance, a pit viper native to Central and South America, is responsible for most snakebite incidents in its region. Its venom can cause severe tissue damage, internal bleeding, and death if untreated. The Fer-de-Lance is highly aggressive and often strikes without warning, making it one of the most dangerous snakes in the Americas.

9. Eastern Diamondback Rattlesnake: The Largest Rattlesnake

The Eastern Diamondback Rattlesnake is the largest and most dangerous rattlesnake in the United States. Found in the southeastern U.S., its venom is highly toxic, causing severe pain, swelling, and tissue damage. Despite its deadly nature, it prefers to avoid humans and will usually give a warning rattle before striking. This is not the type of rattle you should shake!

10. Olive Sea Snake: A Venomous Swimmer

The Olive Sea Snake, found in the waters of the Pacific and Indian Oceans, is one of the most venomous sea snakes. Its venom contains potent neurotoxins that can cause paralysis and death. Although it rarely bites humans, the Olive Sea Snake is highly curious and often approaches divers, making it a potential threat. I have personally had one of these curled around my leg whilst freediving.

Conclusion

These venomous snakes are a reminder of the dangers that exist in the natural world. While encounters with these snakes are rare, their venomous capabilities make them some of the most feared creatures on the planet. Always exercise caution in areas where these snakes are known to live, and seek immediate medical attention if bitten. That being said, many of these snakes give warning signs. Again this is a case of ‘knowledge is power’.