Where are You Most Likely to Die of a Snake Bite?

Not in Australia! Seven of the 10 most poisonous snakes in the world live there, but you're not likely to get bitten unless you’re a rodent.

The place where you're most likely to die of a snake bite is Sri Lanka. In fact, six of every 100,000 deaths each year are due to snake bite. In 2008, 33,000 snake bites were recorded by the Sri Lankan government — in comparison, only about 3,000 bites are recorded each year in Australia. The high death rate in Sri Lanka may be due in part to the high population density; in 1995, there were about 281 people per square kilometer (about 282 people per square mile). People choosing to live in remote locations may also have an impact — in 1981, the census recorded 78.5% of the population living in rural areas.

More fun facts:

• Sri Lanka is home to every known venomous snake family.


• There are 190 reptile species living in Sri Lanka — 96 of them are snakes.


• Poisonous snakes include: Cobra, Common Krait, Sri Lanka krait, Russells's viper, Saw scale viper, Hump nose viper, Green pit viper, plus 13 species of marine snakes.
• Krait bites become more frequent during mating season.


• There are over 20 million people living in Sri Lanka.


• Sri Lanka is 25,332 square miles (65,610 square kilometers) — about the size of the state of West Virginia in the United States.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which country has the highest number of snakebite fatalities?

India experiences the highest number of snakebite fatalities, with an estimated 50,000 deaths annually. This is due to a combination of factors including a high prevalence of venomous snakes, densely populated rural areas where medical care may be limited, and significant agricultural activity that increases human-snake interactions.

What are the most venomous snakes responsible for fatalities?

The most venomous snakes responsible for fatalities include the Saw-scaled viper, Indian cobra, Russell's viper, and the Inland Taipan. The first three are particularly prevalent in South Asia, while the Inland Taipan is native to Australia but rarely encounters humans. These species possess potent venoms that can cause severe systemic effects, leading to death if not treated promptly.

How can I reduce the risk of dying from a snakebite?

To reduce the risk of dying from a snakebite, avoid areas where snakes are common, wear protective clothing such as boots and long pants when in snake habitats, and be cautious when moving objects under which snakes may hide. In case of a bite, seek immediate medical attention and try to remember the snake's appearance for identification and appropriate antivenom treatment.

Are snakebite deaths common in urban areas?

Snakebite deaths are less common in urban areas compared to rural settings. Urbanization typically leads to habitat loss for snakes, reducing encounters with humans. However, in some developing countries, urban expansion into snake-rich areas can lead to increased interactions, and without rapid access to medical care, fatalities can still occur.

What time of year are snakebite incidents most frequent?

Snakebite incidents are most frequent during warmer months when snakes are more active. In tropical regions, this may correspond with the rainy season, which can also coincide with agricultural activities, thus increasing human-snake interactions. Seasonal patterns vary by region, but generally, warmer temperatures increase snake metabolism and activity levels, leading to more bites.

Do antivenoms guarantee survival from a venomous snakebite?

While antivenoms significantly increase the chances of survival, they do not guarantee it. The effectiveness of antivenom depends on the timely administration after a bite, the type of snake, and the amount of venom injected. Access to medical care and the availability of the correct antivenom are critical factors in survival outcomes.