[Photo] Tiger Snake (grey-banded form). Photographer: Peter Robertson / Source: Wildlife Profiles Pty. Ltd.

Snakes found in Victoria series
Mainland Tiger Snake
Notechis scutatus

Identification
Perhaps Victoria’s best-known snake, the Mainland Tiger Snake, Notechis scutatus, varies in colour from uniform light brown to black. The most frequent pattern is alternating light and dark bands, which gives rise to the common name. It normally has 17 mid-body scale rows, although there may occasionally be 15 or 19 rows. The anal scale is single, as are the 35???65 subcaudal scales. The frontal shield scale is almost square. Adults can reach 1.5 m.

Distribution and habitat
This species is common in some metropolitan areas of Melbourne, particularly the basalt plains of the western suburbs. It is widespread in Victoria although is absent from the non-riverine areas of the semi-arid north-west.

Biology and bite
Active both day and night, Mainland Tiger Snakes feed mainly on frogs, but also on a wide variety of other small vertebrates. Females usually give birth to 20???30 live young in late summer or early autumn.

Mainland Tiger Snakes are extremely dangerous and can inflict fatal bites, although they are aggressive only if aroused. If bitten on a limb, apply a pressure bandage, immobilise the limb and seek medical advice immediately. If bitten elsewhere, apply continuous direct pressure to the bite site. Do not wash the wound, as the venom on the skin can be used to identify the appropriate antivenom.

Further reading
Coventry, A. J. and Robertson, P. 1991. The Snakes of Victoria ??? A Guide to their Identification. Department of Conservation & Environment/Museum of Victoria.
Cogger, H. 2000. Reptiles and Amphibians of Australia. Reed Books.
Museum Victoria Information Sheets: Snakes found in Victoria series.
Wilson, S. & Swan, G. 2003. Reptiles of Australia. Princeton University Press.

Internet resources
Bioinformatics website of Museum Victoria:
http://www.museum.vic.gov.au/bioinformatics/snake/

?? Museum Victoria 2000