Mulga Snake
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h2<>Pseudechis australis or the Mulga Snake
The Mulga Snake is the heaviest of Australia's venomous snakes, and they also have the widest distribution. A large adult can reach a length of 3 metres. They have the largest venom output of any Australian snake. A 1.65 metre specimen once delivered 5 mL in one bite, which equates to 600 mg of dried venom. The Mulga Snake is in the Black Snake family, but because of its brown colour these animals are often thought to be in the Brown Snake family. Mulga Snake venom affects the skeletal musculature, being mainly haemolytic and cytotoxic, but it's also mildly neurotoxic and myotoxic.
Mulga Snakes will feed on any small animal, though they do have a preference for other snakes and lizards. Research is currently being undertaken using the Mulga Snake venom to help people suffering with blood clots. The Mulga Snake venom has strong anti-coagulant properties, which prevent the blood from clotting. The Mulga Snake is an egg layer, with females producing on average 12 eggs per clutch.
Did you know...
- Mulga snakes have the largest venom output of any Australian snake.
- The Mulga Snake venom has strong anti-coagulant properties, which prevent the blood from clotting.
- Mulga snakes will feed on any small animal, though they do have a preference for other snakes and lizards.
- The mulga snake is in the Black Snake family, but because of its brown colour these animals are often thought to be in the Brown Snake family.
Distribution of Mulga Snakes in Australia:
