Barkly Tableland Death Adder
Acanthophis hawkei
A grassland-dwelling death adder restricted to the black soil plains of the Barkly Tableland in northern Australia.
- Venomous?
- Venomous
- Adult length
- 0.4-0.7 m (1.3-2.3 ft)
- Range
- Barkly Tableland region of Northern Territory and Queensland, Australia
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Overview
The Barkly Tableland Death Adder inhabits the vast grassy black-soil plains of the Barkly Tableland region straddling the Northern Territory and Queensland border. It is one of the more recently recognized death adder species.
Its body form and ambush strategy follow the typical death adder pattern, but it occupies a distinctly grassland-dominated habitat compared to its rocky or desert relatives.
How to identify it
- Grey to pale brown body with faint darker crossbands
- Stocky body with a broad, triangular head
- Rough, keeled scales
- Vertically elliptical pupil
- Thin, worm-like tail tip
- Distinguished from other death adders mainly by its grassland habitat and range
Habitat & range
Restricted to the black-soil grass plains of the Barkly Tableland in northern Australia, sheltering under grass tussocks and soil cracks.
Behavior, diet & reproduction
Ambush predator that lies concealed in grass, using its tail tip to lure small reptiles and mammals. Mostly nocturnal. Gives birth to live young rather than laying eggs.
Frequently asked questions
Is the Barkly Tableland Death Adder dangerous?
Yes, it is venomous and capable of a rapid strike if disturbed.
What habitat does it prefer?
Grassy black-soil plains, unlike the rocky or sandy habitats of some other death adder species.
How does it hunt?
By remaining motionless and luring prey close with its wriggling tail tip.
Where is it found?
On the Barkly Tableland spanning the Northern Territory and Queensland.
Barkly Tableland Death Adder guides
In-depth guides for identifying and understanding Barkly Tableland Death Adder.
