Collett's Snake

The Collett's Snake - also known as the Down's Tiger Snake and Collett's Black Snake - is a venomous snake native to Australia. Although the Collett's Snake is not as venomous as other Australian snakes, it is capable of delivering a fatal bite, ranking nineteenth in the world's most venomous snakes.^[1]

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Physical Description

Appearance

The colourisation of adult Collett's may vary from a dark brown colour to black, with irregular colour bands. These bands are usually cross-shaped and are generally an orange-red colour. The Collett's underbelly is normally the same colour as its bands, but may have varied discolourisations or discoloured patches. Juveniles are usually the same colour as adults but generally have brighter shades and contrast more. It is similar in physical structure (but not appearance) to the Red-Bellied Black Snake.

Length

The Collett's Snake are usually found between 1.8 - 2.2 metres. Males can reach up to 2.6 metres in length, while females can reach up to 2.1 metres. They are usually 30 centimetres in length at birth.

Venom

The venom produced by the Collett's Snake is similar to the Papuan Black Snake's and Mulga Snake's venom.^[2] The venom is cytotoxic and has haemolytic activity. Neurotoxins may also be found in its venom as well. Collett's produce around about 30 milligrams of venom in one strike. Black Snake or Tiger Snake anti-venom can by administered. It is the world's nineteenth most venomous snake.^[3]

Geographical Distribution

The Collett's Snake is found exclusively in Queensland, Australia. It is primarily found to the west of Queensland and spreading from the north to south. They are found in dry-barren areas or plains.

Behaviour

Diet

The Collett's main diet consists of frogs and plague rats. Being diurnal they hunt during the day and feed by injecting their fangs into their prey and pumping their cytotoxic venom into them. Cannibalism is also known to occur in Collett's Snakes. When provoked, Collett's will produce a loud hissing noise and may produce a series of warning strikes. Although they are placid snakes, they will bite if under threat.

Reproduction

Mating occurs from early August to late October, where hatchlings emerge 2-3 months later. The female lays a clutch of 7-14 eggs. Reproduction in captivity is known to be highly successful.

References

• Venomous Reptiles
• Anti-Venom Handbook