How Many Different Types of Snakes Are Venomous?

About 600 types of snakes are venomous, or able to inject toxins through their bite, out of the estimated 3,000 snake species worldwide. The majority of snakes will smother or swallow their prey rather than injecting it with venom. Out of the snake species that are venomous, only about half are considered to be threats to humans. The others generally will not attack people unless they are provoked. The venom from snakes is either neurotoxic, meaning that it targets the nervous system, or hemotoxic, which targets the blood.

More about venomous snakes:

• One of the most venomous snakes, the hook-nosed sea snake, lives in southeast Asia and can kill with just 1.5 milligrams of its venom.
• Australia has the most highly venomous snake species, being home to 21 of the world's 25 most venomous snake species, but the country's death rate from snakebites is less than six people per year.
• The king cobra is thought to be the world’s largest venomous snake, measuring at an average length of 18 feet (5.49 m).

Frequently Asked Questions

How many different types of snakes are venomous?

Out of the approximately 3,000 snake species worldwide, about 600 are venomous. This means that roughly 20% of all snake species have the ability to produce venom, which they use primarily for hunting and self-defense. However, only a fraction of these venomous species are considered dangerous to humans.

Which regions have the highest diversity of venomous snakes?

Tropical regions, particularly in Asia, Africa, and Australia, boast the highest diversity of venomous snakes. Australia is renowned for having a large number of venomous species, including the infamous Inland Taipan, which has the most toxic venom of any land snake. These regions' warm climates and varied habitats support a rich variety of snake species.

Are all venomous snakes equally dangerous to humans?

No, not all venomous snakes pose the same level of threat to humans. The potency of venom varies widely among species, as does the amount of venom injected. For example, the Inland Taipan's venom is highly toxic, but it is also shy and rarely encounters humans. Conversely, the less venomous but more aggressive Russell's viper accounts for more bites due to its proximity to populated areas.

What is the difference between venomous and poisonous snakes?

Venomous snakes inject venom into their prey or predators through specialized fangs, whereas poisonous snakes contain toxins within their body that can be harmful if ingested or touched. The term 'poisonous' is often incorrectly used to describe venomous snakes. In reality, very few snake species are truly poisonous, and the majority are venomous.

How can I identify a venomous snake in the wild?

Identifying a venomous snake can be challenging, as there is no single characteristic that distinguishes all venomous from non-venomous snakes. However, some venomous snakes have triangular heads, elliptical pupils, and visible fang marks. It's important to note that these traits are not universal, and learning about local snake species is the best way to identify them safely.

What should I do if I am bitten by a venomous snake?

If bitten by a venomous snake, it's crucial to seek medical attention immediately. Remain calm, immobilize the bitten area, and keep it lower than the heart. Do not attempt to suck out the venom or apply a tourniquet. Time is of the essence, so getting to a hospital where antivenom can be administered is the top priority.