Austrelaps superbus (Günther, 1858)

Size

Austrelaps superbus, commonly known as the lowland copperhead, generally reaches 1 to 1.5 meters (3 to 5 feet) in length.

Body Coloration

Their body coloration varies widely, ranging from coppery mid-brown to yellowish, reddish, grey, or black. The distinctive copper-colored head that inspired the species' common name is not always present on individuals.

Venom Toxicity

The subcutaneous LD50 of this species' venom has been measured at 0.5 mg/kg.

Distribution

This species is distributed across southeastern Australia, including Tasmania.

Habitat and Diet

Austrelaps superbus prefers habitats with low vegetation located near water bodies, where it hunts prey including frogs, lizards, snakes, and smaller conspecific individuals.

Local Population Status and Threats

In sandstone ridgetop woodland in the Blue Mountains, west of Sydney, this species has been recorded; populations here are becoming rare due to increasing fire frequency and the spread of urban settlements.