the Most Dangerous Reptiles in the World

Reptiles are well-known to be one of the most dangerous animals on the planet. Although snakes and crocodiles are perhaps the most well-known, several other reptiles (many of which you may not have heard of) can be just as dangerous as these notorious predators. Find out more about 8 of the most dangerous reptiles in the world.

1) Death Adder

The death adder, also known as the deadliest snake in Australia is a pit viper native to Australia and New Guinea. It can be found on all four major islands and is believed to kill up to 60 people per year. Death adders are protected under Australian federal law and killing one carries a fine of $15,000 AUD or 5 years imprisonment. This snake averages 2 meters (6 1/2 feet) long but has been known to grow as large as 3 meters (10 feet).

2) Australian Brown Snake

As their name implies, they’re native to Australia. And while they’re not particularly aggressive, you certainly don’t want to take chances with them. Their poison contains a number of different components (including neurotoxins), which can lead to swelling and paralysis in smaller animals—including humans. The death rate for bite victims is about 50%.

3) Black Mamba

The Black Mamba, or Dendroaspis polylepis, is a venomous snake species found throughout sub-Saharan Africa. Its name comes from its color and its black tongue. The snake can reach up to 14 feet (4.3 meters) in length and has a lifespan of about 20 years.

4) Nile Monitor Lizard

Both young and adult Nile monitor lizards are strong, powerful creatures. However, it is their size and strength that is a primary reason why they’re so dangerous. The Nile monitor can grow up to 7 feet (2.1 meters) long and weigh up to 150 pounds (68 kilograms). If you’re not quick to defend yourself against a Nile monitor lizard, it will attack viciously until it dies or you stop it.

5) Green Anaconda

Don’t let its name fool you, as it was once considered a species of constrictor snake. The Green Anaconda is a member of Eunectes murinus and is native to Central America and northern South America. It has been found at lengths up to 20 feet and weights up to a whopping 160 pounds, making it one of largest species of snake in terms of length. As such, it’s also one of most dangerous, as it is incredibly strong for its size.

6) Taipan Snake

The Taipan Snake is a highly venomous snake found primarily in northern Australia. While it’s far from being one of the deadliest snakes, their venom still packs a punch and can kill a human very quickly. An anti-venom does exist for Taipan snakes and is commonly used in Australia. With early medical attention, there are few cases where humans have died from a Taipan bite.

7) King Cobra

The King Cobra is responsible for more human deaths than any other snake. It is found in Southeast Asia and kills an estimated 100 people every year. When confronted by a human, it will rear up to an impressive five feet tall and spread its neck flaps wide open to reveal its venomous fangs. The King Cobra can deliver enough poison with one bite to kill twenty people within a half hour. There are antivenin treatments available but they are expensive and must be delivered quickly or else death is certain.

8) Indian Cobra

A venomous snake that can reach up to 18 feet, Indian cobras are native to India and Pakistan. It is one of three most dangerous snakes from Asia and Africa with a deadly bite. No antivenom has been developed for its venom, which kills by paralyzing victims’ respiratory systems within hours. The King Cobra and Black Mamba are other two highly poisonous snakes from Asia and Africa, respectively. Both species can be found in Northern India.