Red-bellied black snake (Pseudechis porphyriacus)

lso called the common black snake. The red-bellied black snake prefers swampy, moist areas around creeks, rivers and lakes. They prey on rats, mice, frogs, lizards and birds, as well as fish and eels, as they are good swimmers. They also eat other snakes, including those of their own species. Red-bellied black snakes are mostly active during the day, and are not particularly aggressive.. When threatened, they will flatten their bodies and hiss loudly, but will usually attempt to escape if possible. Red-bellied black snakes are usually black or dark grey in colour, with red or orange flanks. The average length is 1.25m, and the maximum recorded length is 2.5m. The young, numbering from 12-20, are born alive.

Distribution
Distributed down the east coast of Australia, not including Tasmania, and slightly into South Australia

Venom
The red-bellied black snake, while still dangerous, is somewhat less venomous than many other Australian snakes. Average venom yield is around 37mg, and the maximum recorded is 94mg. Its bite may cause coagulopathy, neurotoxicity and myolysis. No deaths have been confirmed in adults, although children have died after bites by this snake. Black snake or tiger snake antivenom may be used, and the latter is preferred due to the smaller volume of protein solution required.