Snakebite
Are there many deaths from snakebite in Queensland?
All snakes attempt to avoid biting humans, but many will do so in defence if they are deliberately provoked or accidentally disturbed. Even though snakebite happens regularly, death from such an event is rare in Queensland and in the rest of Australia. This seems to be a puzzle, given that more than a few Queensland snakes have extremely toxic venoms and that many live on the coast, where most people live.
There is an explanation. Most snakebites in Queensland are from land-dwelling snakes that are not potentially dangerous. These are the majority of our snake species. Queenslanders tend to be aware and wary of all snakes. They know to leave snakes alone wherever possible. Further, throughout Australia, the tried, tested and effective methods of first aid and medical treatment following snakebite are well known and readily available.
It is usually easy to avoid being bitten. Most bites occur when people attempt to taunt, catch or kill snakes.
Snakes will always give an 'aggressor' a chance to retreat. Several potentially dangerous species adopt characteristic defensive postures.
However, some species give little warning before biting and the move from defensive posture to a warning or full bite can take place rapidly, sometimes with little provocation.
Snakes that are only mildly venomous, or which lack venom, also give warnings when provoked:
The message about how to avoid being bitten by snakes is clear. Always leave snakes alone.