Central Ranges Taipan
Oxyuranus temporalis
A rarely encountered desert-dwelling taipan discovered in the remote tri-state border region of central Australia.
- Venomous?
- Venomous
- Adult length
- 1.5-2 m (5-6.5 ft)
- Range
- Central desert regions of Western Australia, South Australia and Northern Territory borders
Found a snake like this?
Identify any snake from a photo, free.
Overview
The Central Ranges Taipan is one of the most recently described taipan species, first documented in 2007 from the remote spinifex deserts near the borders of Western Australia, South Australia, and the Northern Territory. It remains poorly studied due to its isolated range.
Like other taipans, it possesses highly potent venom, though encounters with humans are extremely rare given its remote habitat.
How to identify it
- Uniform olive-brown to reddish-brown body
- Head slightly paler than body, without the distinct dark cap seen in the coastal taipan
- Smooth scales with a slight sheen
- Round pupil
- Slender, moderately long body
- Distinguished from other taipans mainly by locality and subtle head scale differences
Habitat & range
Restricted to remote sandy and stony deserts with spinifex grassland in the tri-state border region of central Australia. Shelters in burrows and under spinifex clumps.
Behavior, diet & reproduction
Poorly documented due to its remoteness, but believed to be diurnal or crepuscular. Presumed to feed primarily on small mammals. Likely egg-laying like other taipans, though little breeding data exists.
Frequently asked questions
Is the Central Ranges Taipan dangerous?
Yes, it is a venomous taipan species, though human encounters are exceedingly rare.
When was it discovered?
It was formally described in 2007 from specimens found in the central Australian deserts.
Where does it live?
In remote spinifex desert near the junction of Western Australia, South Australia, and the Northern Territory.
Is much known about its biology?
No, it is one of the least-studied taipan species due to its isolated habitat.
Central Ranges Taipan guides
In-depth guides for identifying and understanding Central Ranges Taipan.
