Lowland Copperhead

Scientific Name: Austrelaps superbus

The head of the lowland copperhead is small and not obviously distinct from the body. They normally grow to a length of around a metre but on some Bass Strait islands lengths of 1.7 metres have been recorded. The body colour is quite variable, ranging from black through brown to a dull brick red. The sides are usually paler than the back. The most distinctive feature is the white barring over a dark background on the lips. This snake is highly venomous.

Habitat:

This species is adapted to living in a cold temperate climate. They are particularly common around wetlands but also occur in woodlands, grasslands and heath country.

Diet:

The copperhead feed mostly on frogs and lizards but, occasionally small mammals and birds may be taken.

Reproduction:

As an adaptation to living in cold climates, copperheads produce their young alive rather than laying eggs. The 15-30 minute replicas of the adults are totally independent at birth and are fully equipped with venom, which is toxic enough to be considered dangerous to humans.