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What is a King Brown?

Bethney Foster
Bethney Foster

King brown is one of the longest venomous snakes in the world and is considered to be among the top five most venomous snakes in the world. Native to most of Australia, this snake is also known commonly as a mulga snake and is scientifically named Pseudechis australis. A member of the black snake family, colors of the snake range from brown to copper to nearly black. The snake is lighter in color on its underside, with darker crosshatch patterns marking its scales.

Growing to more than 8 feet (2.5 meters) in length and having a broad head, the king brown is found in the grasslands, deserts, and woodlands of its native continent. It often encounters humans when hiding under garbage piles or in other debris. It is not found in the rainforests of Australian, preferring a more arid habitat.

One environment that king brown snakes can occupy is the desert.
One environment that king brown snakes can occupy is the desert.

Venom from the snake is considered to be highly dangerous. While the actual venom may not be as potent as with some other types of poisonous snakes, this snake is known for injecting its victims with large amounts of venom, more than 150 mg in a single bite. If threatened, the king brown snake will often strike repeatedly.

Mainly active at night, especially during hot weather, the king brown is a member of the Elapidaw family. A predator, the snake feeds mainly on lizards and other snakes, but will also eat birds and rodents. It also feeds on other venomous snakes, but the venom of its prey seems to cause the king brown no harm. The snake kills its prey by a chewing action that pumps venom into the body, slowing down the animal’s ability to react and escape.

The venom of the king brown contains motoxins that cause damage to the muscles, while postsynaptic neurotoxins cause muscle paralysis. Also present in the venom are anticoagulants that stop blood from clotting. The venom has also been found to cause renal damage in human victims of the king brown’s bite.

The female snake lays 8 to 20 eggs in a clutch. She most often incubates her eggs beneath debris piles or a fallen tree or rock. After two to three months, the eggs hatch. The parent snakes provide no care for their young, and the mother snake leaves the nesting area shortly before or after the eggs hatch. Upon hatching, the young snakes go in search of prey for their first meal.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a King Brown snake?

The King Brown, also known as the Mulga snake, is a highly venomous serpent native to Australia. Despite its common name, it's actually part of the black snake family, Pseudechis, and not a true brown snake. It's known for its robust build, large size, and potent venom, which contains myotoxins and coagulants.

How venomous is the King Brown snake?

The King Brown snake's venom is extremely potent, containing powerful toxins that can cause muscle damage and blood clotting disorders. While it's not the most venomous Australian snake, the volume of venom it can deliver in a single bite—up to 150 milligrams—makes it particularly dangerous. Immediate medical attention is crucial following a bite.

Where can you find King Brown snakes in Australia?

King Brown snakes are widely distributed across mainland Australia, particularly in arid and semi-arid regions. They thrive in diverse habitats, from woodlands and grasslands to the edges of deserts. Their adaptability means they can also be found near human habitation, where they sometimes seek water or prey.

What do King Brown snakes eat?

King Brown snakes are opportunistic feeders with a diet that includes a variety of prey. They consume other snakes (including their own species), lizards, rodents, birds, and frogs. Their powerful constriction and venom ensure they can subdue and digest a wide range of prey sizes and types.

How does the King Brown snake behave?

King Brown snakes are known for their defensive nature when threatened. They may hiss loudly and flatten their bodies to appear larger. However, they typically avoid confrontation with humans if possible. These snakes are mostly active at night, especially during the hot summer months, but can also be seen basking during the day in cooler weather.

Is the King Brown snake protected in Australia?

Like many native Australian animals, the King Brown snake is protected under various state and territory wildlife conservation acts. It is illegal to kill or capture these snakes without appropriate permits. Conservation efforts aim to preserve their populations, as they play a crucial role in the ecosystem as both predators and prey.

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    • One environment that king brown snakes can occupy is the desert.
      By: george kuna
      One environment that king brown snakes can occupy is the desert.