The dangerous fauna of Oz
Nov 5th 2004, 12:39 pm
#1
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Joined: Oct 2003
Location: Victor Harbor, SA
Posts: 1,256
The dangerous fauna of Oz
Recently arrived in my new country and am currently living in the sticks with the in-laws until January. I seem to remember a couple of threads assuring people that although Oz has it's fair share of dangerous creatures there was nothing to worry about as you rarely have any encounters with such things.
Really?
In my first week I have nearly trod on a red bellied black snake (dangerously venomous, more than capable of killing a mere mortal) and had a close encounter with a Brown Snake. Apparently pseudonaja textilis has enough venom in one bite to kill 10,000 guinea pigs so if your kids have a fondness for small furry animals don't let them out of their glass homes. According to one reputable website the Brown Snake is the 2nd deadliest in the world (for those interested the Taipan is the deadliest - to be found in the top half of Australia so at least I'm safe until January).
And for those averse to eight legged furry creatures I have seen two red back spiders outside and a white tipped spider on the pillow next to me whilst on the phone. Of course there's a few Huntsmen about as well but although they are huge and furry apparently a bite for one will not cause any long term problems.
I haven't even set foot in the sea yet.................
Really?
In my first week I have nearly trod on a red bellied black snake (dangerously venomous, more than capable of killing a mere mortal) and had a close encounter with a Brown Snake. Apparently pseudonaja textilis has enough venom in one bite to kill 10,000 guinea pigs so if your kids have a fondness for small furry animals don't let them out of their glass homes. According to one reputable website the Brown Snake is the 2nd deadliest in the world (for those interested the Taipan is the deadliest - to be found in the top half of Australia so at least I'm safe until January).
And for those averse to eight legged furry creatures I have seen two red back spiders outside and a white tipped spider on the pillow next to me whilst on the phone. Of course there's a few Huntsmen about as well but although they are huge and furry apparently a bite for one will not cause any long term problems.
I haven't even set foot in the sea yet.................
Nov 5th 2004, 12:47 pm
#2
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Joined: Aug 2004
Posts: 29,154
Re: The dangerous fauna of Oz
Originally Posted by Kentish Man
Recently arrived in my new country and am currently living in the sticks with the in-laws until January. I seem to remember a couple of threads assuring people that although Oz has it's fair share of dangerous creatures there was nothing to worry about as you rarely have any encounters with such things.
Really?
In my first week I have nearly trod on a red bellied black snake (dangerously venomous, more than capable of killing a mere mortal) and had a close encounter with a Brown Snake. Apparently pseudonaja textilis has enough venom in one bite to kill 10,000 guinea pigs so if your kids have a fondness for small furry animals don't let them out of their glass homes. According to one reputable website the Brown Snake is the 2nd deadliest in the world (for those interested the Taipan is the deadliest - to be found in the top half of Australia so at least I'm safe until January).
And for those averse to eight legged furry creatures I have seen two red back spiders outside and a white tipped spider on the pillow next to me whilst on the phone. Of course there's a few Huntsmen about as well but although they are huge and furry apparently a bite for one will not cause any long term problems.
I haven't even set foot in the sea yet.................
Really?
In my first week I have nearly trod on a red bellied black snake (dangerously venomous, more than capable of killing a mere mortal) and had a close encounter with a Brown Snake. Apparently pseudonaja textilis has enough venom in one bite to kill 10,000 guinea pigs so if your kids have a fondness for small furry animals don't let them out of their glass homes. According to one reputable website the Brown Snake is the 2nd deadliest in the world (for those interested the Taipan is the deadliest - to be found in the top half of Australia so at least I'm safe until January).
And for those averse to eight legged furry creatures I have seen two red back spiders outside and a white tipped spider on the pillow next to me whilst on the phone. Of course there's a few Huntsmen about as well but although they are huge and furry apparently a bite for one will not cause any long term problems.
I haven't even set foot in the sea yet.................
Nov 5th 2004, 12:47 pm
#3
Joined: Dec 2003
Location: Hillarys, Perth
Posts: 3,973
Re: The dangerous fauna of Oz
Originally Posted by Kentish Man
Recently arrived in my new country and am currently living in the sticks with the in-laws until January. I seem to remember a couple of threads assuring people that although Oz has it's fair share of dangerous creatures there was nothing to worry about as you rarely have any encounters with such things.
Really?
In my first week I have nearly trod on a red bellied black snake (dangerously venomous, more than capable of killing a mere mortal) and had a close encounter with a Brown Snake. Apparently pseudonaja textilis has enough venom in one bite to kill 10,000 guinea pigs so if your kids have a fondness for small furry animals don't let them out of their glass homes. According to one reputable website the Brown Snake is the 2nd deadliest in the world (for those interested the Taipan is the deadliest - to be found in the top half of Australia so at least I'm safe until January).
And for those averse to eight legged furry creatures I have seen two red back spiders outside and a white tipped spider on the pillow next to me whilst on the phone. Of course there's a few Huntsmen about as well but although they are huge and furry apparently a bite for one will not cause any long term problems.
I haven't even set foot in the sea yet.................
Really?
In my first week I have nearly trod on a red bellied black snake (dangerously venomous, more than capable of killing a mere mortal) and had a close encounter with a Brown Snake. Apparently pseudonaja textilis has enough venom in one bite to kill 10,000 guinea pigs so if your kids have a fondness for small furry animals don't let them out of their glass homes. According to one reputable website the Brown Snake is the 2nd deadliest in the world (for those interested the Taipan is the deadliest - to be found in the top half of Australia so at least I'm safe until January).
And for those averse to eight legged furry creatures I have seen two red back spiders outside and a white tipped spider on the pillow next to me whilst on the phone. Of course there's a few Huntsmen about as well but although they are huge and furry apparently a bite for one will not cause any long term problems.
I haven't even set foot in the sea yet.................
But as you say your living in the sticks, so you would have to expect to see them
Nov 5th 2004, 12:53 pm
#4
Account Closed
Joined: Sep 2004
Location: Cairns, Qld.
Posts: 2,863
Re: The dangerous fauna of Oz
Originally Posted by Kentish Man
Recently arrived in my new country and am currently living in the sticks with the in-laws until January. I seem to remember a couple of threads assuring people that although Oz has it's fair share of dangerous creatures there was nothing to worry about as you rarely have any encounters with such things.
Really?
In my first week I have nearly trod on a red bellied black snake (dangerously venomous, more than capable of killing a mere mortal) and had a close encounter with a Brown Snake. Apparently pseudonaja textilis has enough venom in one bite to kill 10,000 guinea pigs so if your kids have a fondness for small furry animals don't let them out of their glass homes. According to one reputable website the Brown Snake is the 2nd deadliest in the world (for those interested the Taipan is the deadliest - to be found in the top half of Australia so at least I'm safe until January).
And for those averse to eight legged furry creatures I have seen two red back spiders outside and a white tipped spider on the pillow next to me whilst on the phone. Of course there's a few Huntsmen about as well but although they are huge and furry apparently a bite for one will not cause any long term problems.
I haven't even set foot in the sea yet.................
Really?
In my first week I have nearly trod on a red bellied black snake (dangerously venomous, more than capable of killing a mere mortal) and had a close encounter with a Brown Snake. Apparently pseudonaja textilis has enough venom in one bite to kill 10,000 guinea pigs so if your kids have a fondness for small furry animals don't let them out of their glass homes. According to one reputable website the Brown Snake is the 2nd deadliest in the world (for those interested the Taipan is the deadliest - to be found in the top half of Australia so at least I'm safe until January).
And for those averse to eight legged furry creatures I have seen two red back spiders outside and a white tipped spider on the pillow next to me whilst on the phone. Of course there's a few Huntsmen about as well but although they are huge and furry apparently a bite for one will not cause any long term problems.
I haven't even set foot in the sea yet.................
A Red-bellied black is not going to kill you........possibly hospitalise at worst. They are a docile snake and their bite is nowhere near as lethal as folks, including most Aussies like to make out.
Taipans certainly are deadly, but not as deadly as the fierce snake of Western Qld's Black soil country. I do wish the text books would get this right.
Eastern Brown Pseudonaja textilis (as opposed to King Brown which is a totally different species), is deadly and also aggressive. That's the one to be wary of.
As for spiders, I love 'em! They won't kill you, and if they bite, then antivenom is readily available. To me, where you're living is paradise. I was looking for these things when I was there!
Nov 5th 2004, 1:50 pm
#5
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Re: The dangerous fauna of Oz
Originally Posted by Kentish Man
Recently arrived in my new country and am currently living in the sticks with the in-laws until January. I seem to remember a couple of threads assuring people that although Oz has it's fair share of dangerous creatures there was nothing to worry about as you rarely have any encounters with such things.
Really?
In my first week I have nearly trod on a red bellied black snake (dangerously venomous, more than capable of killing a mere mortal) and had a close encounter with a Brown Snake. Apparently pseudonaja textilis has enough venom in one bite to kill 10,000 guinea pigs so if your kids have a fondness for small furry animals don't let them out of their glass homes. According to one reputable website the Brown Snake is the 2nd deadliest in the world (for those interested the Taipan is the deadliest - to be found in the top half of Australia so at least I'm safe until January).
And for those averse to eight legged furry creatures I have seen two red back spiders outside and a white tipped spider on the pillow next to me whilst on the phone. Of course there's a few Huntsmen about as well but although they are huge and furry apparently a bite for one will not cause any long term problems.
I haven't even set foot in the sea yet.................
Really?
In my first week I have nearly trod on a red bellied black snake (dangerously venomous, more than capable of killing a mere mortal) and had a close encounter with a Brown Snake. Apparently pseudonaja textilis has enough venom in one bite to kill 10,000 guinea pigs so if your kids have a fondness for small furry animals don't let them out of their glass homes. According to one reputable website the Brown Snake is the 2nd deadliest in the world (for those interested the Taipan is the deadliest - to be found in the top half of Australia so at least I'm safe until January).
And for those averse to eight legged furry creatures I have seen two red back spiders outside and a white tipped spider on the pillow next to me whilst on the phone. Of course there's a few Huntsmen about as well but although they are huge and furry apparently a bite for one will not cause any long term problems.
I haven't even set foot in the sea yet.................
car accidents. Few people who are bitten by snakes acually die, you usually have a few hours to get to hospital before you collapse where they give you a shot of anti venom which will make you alright. Most of the time when people are bitten by these deadly snakes they are'nt able to get enough venom into you to kill you and even without medical treatment you may just
feel very sick and not die. Snake venom is designed to kill small creatures not large animals such as humans. Snakes will only ever attack you if you pick them up or step on them, they are'nt going to chase after you as they are affraid of humans.
Last edited by aussie73; Nov 5th 2004 at 1:57 pm.
Nov 5th 2004, 8:05 pm
#6
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Joined: Oct 2003
Location: Nappyland
Posts: 2,886
Re: The dangerous fauna of Oz
Originally Posted by aussie73
If you do meet your end in OZ l bet it won't be through any dangerous creature. Only 2 or 3 people are killed by snakes a year, no one has been killed by a spider since the 1950's. Compared to 1,000 per year killed in
car accidents.
car accidents.
Nov 5th 2004, 8:39 pm
#7
Forum Regular
Joined: Feb 2004
Posts: 119
Re: The dangerous fauna of Oz
Originally Posted by HiddenPaw
Australia's annual road death toll is over 1700 a year - not 1000. It has never been as low as 1000 (not in the last 40 years, anyway). 1700-1800 road deaths per year has been the trend for the last 10 years or so. Go back as far as 1970, the number killed on Australian roads was 3800. Road death toll has been dropping since then but has remained stagnant for the last few years at around the 1750 mark.
Nov 5th 2004, 9:19 pm
#8
Joined: Feb 2004
Posts: 622
Re: The dangerous fauna of Oz
Originally Posted by aussie73
If you do meet your end in OZ l bet it won't be through any dangerous creature. Only 2 or 3 people are killed by snakes a year, no one has been killed by a spider since the 1950's. Compared to 1,000 per year killed in
car accidents. Few people who are bitten by snakes acually die, you usually have a few hours to get to hospital before you collapse where they give you a shot of anti venom which will make you alright. Most of the time when people are bitten by these deadly snakes they are'nt able to get enough venom into you to kill you and even without medical treatment you may just
feel very sick and not die. Snake venom is designed to kill small creatures not large animals such as humans. Snakes will only ever attack you if you pick them up or step on them, they are'nt going to chase after you as they are affraid of humans.
car accidents. Few people who are bitten by snakes acually die, you usually have a few hours to get to hospital before you collapse where they give you a shot of anti venom which will make you alright. Most of the time when people are bitten by these deadly snakes they are'nt able to get enough venom into you to kill you and even without medical treatment you may just
feel very sick and not die. Snake venom is designed to kill small creatures not large animals such as humans. Snakes will only ever attack you if you pick them up or step on them, they are'nt going to chase after you as they are affraid of humans.
Also gaiters are available to wear from boot to knee for protection. Probably not necessary for going to town :-) but if you're out in the rough stuff it's added protection.
the Sydney funnelweb is dangerous and one should also apply the compression bandage method for their bites, but I believe that for all other spider bites, cold compresses/icepacks are recommended. Their are a few good sites for first aid info.
Be Prepared is the cub scout motto I believe.
Nov 5th 2004, 9:46 pm
#9
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Joined: May 2004
Location: Frankston South, Victoria
Posts: 2,867
Re: The dangerous fauna of Oz
Originally Posted by Kentish Man
Recently arrived in my new country and am currently living in the sticks with the in-laws until January. I seem to remember a couple of threads assuring people that although Oz has it's fair share of dangerous creatures there was nothing to worry about as you rarely have any encounters with such things.
Really?
In my first week I have nearly trod on a red bellied black snake (dangerously venomous, more than capable of killing a mere mortal) and had a close encounter with a Brown Snake. Apparently pseudonaja textilis has enough venom in one bite to kill 10,000 guinea pigs so if your kids have a fondness for small furry animals don't let them out of their glass homes. According to one reputable website the Brown Snake is the 2nd deadliest in the world (for those interested the Taipan is the deadliest - to be found in the top half of Australia so at least I'm safe until January).
And for those averse to eight legged furry creatures I have seen two red back spiders outside and a white tipped spider on the pillow next to me whilst on the phone. Of course there's a few Huntsmen about as well but although they are huge and furry apparently a bite for one will not cause any long term problems.
I haven't even set foot in the sea yet.................
Really?
In my first week I have nearly trod on a red bellied black snake (dangerously venomous, more than capable of killing a mere mortal) and had a close encounter with a Brown Snake. Apparently pseudonaja textilis has enough venom in one bite to kill 10,000 guinea pigs so if your kids have a fondness for small furry animals don't let them out of their glass homes. According to one reputable website the Brown Snake is the 2nd deadliest in the world (for those interested the Taipan is the deadliest - to be found in the top half of Australia so at least I'm safe until January).
And for those averse to eight legged furry creatures I have seen two red back spiders outside and a white tipped spider on the pillow next to me whilst on the phone. Of course there's a few Huntsmen about as well but although they are huge and furry apparently a bite for one will not cause any long term problems.
I haven't even set foot in the sea yet.................
Was wondering how you were getting on and by the sounds of it you're turning into the anglo version of Steve Irwin!!!
Bloomin' 'eck lad, you've certainly had your quota of scarey animals/arachnids since landing.
Made me feel a bit easier noticing you're in SA and were heading for VIC (but not much!!!)
How are you settling in? Must be about 3 or so weeks now. Was the flight OK and did you stop over before hitting SA (can't remember)?.
Keep us posted on your adventures!!!!
D D
Nov 6th 2004, 12:07 pm
#10
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Joined: Oct 2003
Location: Victor Harbor, SA
Posts: 1,256
Re: The dangerous fauna of Oz
Originally Posted by tonyk38
Well you are out in the sticks...................
A Red-bellied black is not going to kill you........possibly hospitalise at worst. They are a docile snake and their bite is nowhere near as lethal as folks, including most Aussies like to make out.
Taipans certainly are deadly, but not as deadly as the fierce snake of Western Qld's Black soil country. I do wish the text books would get this right.
Eastern Brown Pseudonaja textilis (as opposed to King Brown which is a totally different species), is deadly and also aggressive. That's the one to be wary of.
As for spiders, I love 'em! They won't kill you, and if they bite, then antivenom is readily available. To me, where you're living is paradise. I was looking for these things when I was there!
A Red-bellied black is not going to kill you........possibly hospitalise at worst. They are a docile snake and their bite is nowhere near as lethal as folks, including most Aussies like to make out.
Taipans certainly are deadly, but not as deadly as the fierce snake of Western Qld's Black soil country. I do wish the text books would get this right.
Eastern Brown Pseudonaja textilis (as opposed to King Brown which is a totally different species), is deadly and also aggressive. That's the one to be wary of.
As for spiders, I love 'em! They won't kill you, and if they bite, then antivenom is readily available. To me, where you're living is paradise. I was looking for these things when I was there!
I do love the snakes, have to admit, and I'm going out looking for them. The Red Bellied Black lay motionless so I had a good chance to get a close look, beautiful creatures. When it did decide to move it moved at quite a pace though! The Brown Snakes (Eastern Browns round here) get away as quickly as possible although they do have a reputation for aggressiveness according to the locals. I've heard that Tiger Snakes are the most dangerous in Oz (if not the most venomous) accounting for the most fatalities because of their aggressive nature when disturbed.
Spiders don't bother me much one way or the other although I have been on the lookout for red backs. Last time I was here I was moving tyres around when the missus calmly informed me that tyres are the location of choice for your average red back. Sure enough there were a couple in the tyre I was carrying. There's a belief amongst Aussies that the white tipped spider bite will rot your flesh but I suspect this is a myth. Any ideas?
As there's not much else to do where I am at the moment I am appreciating the nature around here. Brightly coloured birds, lizards, kangaroos etc.Makes a change from the Medway towns where the only wildlife you're likely to see is the odd squashed bunny.
Nov 6th 2004, 12:14 pm
#11
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Joined: Sep 2004
Location: Cairns, Qld.
Posts: 2,863
Re: The dangerous fauna of Oz
Originally Posted by Kentish Man
Just hospitalised? Oh that's alright then.
I do love the snakes, have to admit, and I'm going out looking for them. The Red Bellied Black lay motionless so I had a good chance to get a close look, beautiful creatures. When it did decide to move it moved at quite a pace though! The Brown Snakes (Eastern Browns round here) get away as quickly as possible although they do have a reputation for aggressiveness according to the locals. I've heard that Tiger Snakes are the most dangerous in Oz (if not the most venomous) accounting for the most fatalities because of their aggressive nature when disturbed.
Spiders don't bother me much one way or the other although I have been on the lookout for red backs. Last time I was here I was moving tyres around when the missus calmly informed me that tyres are the location of choice for your average red back. Sure enough there were a couple in the tyre I was carrying. There's a belief amongst Aussies that the white tipped spider bite will rot your flesh but I suspect this is a myth. Any ideas?
As there's not much else to do where I am at the moment I am appreciating the nature around here. Brightly coloured birds, lizards, kangaroos etc.Makes a change from the Medway towns where the only wildlife you're likely to see is the odd squashed bunny.
I do love the snakes, have to admit, and I'm going out looking for them. The Red Bellied Black lay motionless so I had a good chance to get a close look, beautiful creatures. When it did decide to move it moved at quite a pace though! The Brown Snakes (Eastern Browns round here) get away as quickly as possible although they do have a reputation for aggressiveness according to the locals. I've heard that Tiger Snakes are the most dangerous in Oz (if not the most venomous) accounting for the most fatalities because of their aggressive nature when disturbed.
Spiders don't bother me much one way or the other although I have been on the lookout for red backs. Last time I was here I was moving tyres around when the missus calmly informed me that tyres are the location of choice for your average red back. Sure enough there were a couple in the tyre I was carrying. There's a belief amongst Aussies that the white tipped spider bite will rot your flesh but I suspect this is a myth. Any ideas?
As there's not much else to do where I am at the moment I am appreciating the nature around here. Brightly coloured birds, lizards, kangaroos etc.Makes a change from the Medway towns where the only wildlife you're likely to see is the odd squashed bunny.
Nov 6th 2004, 12:40 pm
#12
Guest
Posts: n/a
Re: The dangerous fauna of Oz
Originally Posted by binman
Yeah right, but at at least you can see a sixty four wheel road train hiding in your bed.
Last edited by aussie73; Nov 6th 2004 at 1:15 pm.
Nov 6th 2004, 1:08 pm
#13
Home and Happy
Joined: Dec 2002
Location: Keep true friends and puppets close, trust no-one else...
Posts: 93,857
Re: The dangerous fauna of Oz
Originally Posted by aussie73
Your not going to find a snake hiding in our bed either unless someone puts it there.
(sorry, couldn't resist it!
Nov 6th 2004, 1:23 pm
#14
Guest
Posts: n/a
Re: The dangerous fauna of Oz
Originally Posted by Pollyana
(sorry, couldn't resist it!hopefully you will think twice before attacking it with a knife.
Nov 6th 2004, 3:35 pm
#15
Back Again
Joined: Aug 2004
Location: Virtual Reality
Posts: 10,831
Re: The dangerous fauna of Oz
Originally Posted by aussie73
l guess there is something else that could be mistaken for a snake in the bed,
hopefully you will think twice before attacking it with a knife.
hopefully you will think twice before attacking it with a knife.
all women beware !!! It's bite has been known to cause abdominal swelling for over nine months then afterwards vaginal discomfort has been reported followed by sore nipples!!...after that eighteen years of sheer hell 
