Why does Australia have so many venomous animals?
Australia has many venomous animals because of its long isolation and its unusual range of habitats, which allowed snakes, spiders, jellyfish and other creatures to evolve powerful venoms. Even so, deaths from bites and stings are rare.
Australia separated from other continents tens of millions of years ago. Its animals evolved in isolation, leading to unique species with special adaptations, including venom.
Elapid snakes, a family that includes taipans, brown snakes and tiger snakes, came to dominate Australia's snake fauna. Many of them have highly potent venom.
Venom on land and sea
Australia is also home to dangerous marine animals, such as box jellyfish, Irukandji jellyfish, stonefish, cone snails and blue-ringed octopuses. Spiders such as the funnel-web and redback are also well known.
Despite this, Australia records relatively few deaths from venomous animals each year. Antivenoms, first aid such as pressure immobilization bandages, and good medical care save lives.
Horses, cows and bees cause more deaths in Australia than snakes or spiders. Most venomous animals avoid people and bite only when threatened. Scientists also study animal venoms to develop new medicines.