Coastal Taipan
Oxyuranus scutellatus
A large, fast-moving, highly venomous Australian elapid found along tropical coastal regions and adjacent New Guinea.
- Venomous?
- Venomous
- Adult length
- 1.8-2.5 m (6-8 ft), occasionally longer
- Range
- Northern and eastern coastal Australia, and parts of New Guinea
Found a snake like this?
Identify any snake from a photo, free.
Overview
The Coastal Taipan is one of Australia's largest and most dangerously venomous snakes, found across tropical and subtropical coastal regions of northern and eastern Australia, as well as in southern New Guinea. It is historically responsible for a significant portion of serious snakebite incidents in its range.
It is a fast, alert, and highly capable hunter, well adapted to the humid coastal and woodland habitats it occupies.
How to identify it
- Uniform tan, olive-brown, or reddish-brown dorsal coloration, often with a paler head compared to the body
- Long, slender to moderately robust body
- Narrow head with a distinctly angular brow ridge above the eye
- Round pupils
- Smooth scales
- Distinguished from the Inland Taipan by its generally larger size, more uniform coloration lacking seasonal darkening, and coastal/tropical rather than arid interior range
Habitat & range
Found in coastal woodlands, grasslands, cane fields, and open forest across northern and eastern Australia's tropical and subtropical zones, as well as southern New Guinea, often near agricultural land where rodents are abundant.
Behavior, diet & reproduction
Diurnal and highly alert, capable of moving quickly when threatened or hunting. Feeds primarily on small mammals, particularly rats, which it strikes rapidly and releases before tracking down. Oviparous, laying eggs in burrows or hollow logs. Considered defensive and capable of repeated rapid strikes if cornered.
Frequently asked questions
Is the Coastal Taipan dangerous?
Yes, it is highly venomous and considered one of Australia's most medically significant snakes, though it generally avoids humans when possible.
Where does the Coastal Taipan live?
In coastal woodlands and grasslands of northern and eastern Australia, as well as southern New Guinea.
How does the Coastal Taipan differ from the Inland Taipan?
The Coastal Taipan is generally larger, more uniformly colored without seasonal darkening, and lives in tropical coastal habitats rather than arid interior plains.
What does the Coastal Taipan eat?
Mainly small mammals, especially rats, which it hunts actively during the day.
Coastal Taipan guides
In-depth guides for identifying and understanding Coastal Taipan.
