Mulga snakes

The Mulga snake has the largest recorded venom output of any snake. It is also the heaviest Australian venomous snake. The mulga snake is found throughout Australia, except in Victoria, Tasmania and the most southern parts of Western Australia. It is sometimes called the "King Brown" snake, but this should be avoided. The name can mislead people into using brown snake antivenom. Mulgas feed on rats, mice birds, lizards and other snakes. They are frequently active at night, especially in hot weather. Its body is uniform in colour, usually light brown, but there is some variation between individuals. The average length is around 1.5m with the record length of greater than 3m. Mulga snakes are oviparous (egg-laying). They may become aggressive and strike repeatedly if threatened.

Average venom yield is around 180mg, with a maximum of 600mg recorded from a single milking. The venom is somewhat less toxic than that of many other Australian venomous snakes. Myotoxicity is a major feature and the venom also contains procoagulants and possibly neurotoxins. Swelling and pain at the bite site may be seen, and are unusual in bites by other Australian snakes. Black snake antivenom should be used for envenomation by the Mulga or the Papuan black snake.