Can tiger snakes bite you in water?

Answered by Jeremy Urbaniak

Tiger snakes are capable of biting you in water. While they are primarily ground-dwelling snakes, they have the ability to swim through water with relative ease. This means that if you encounter a tiger snake while swimming or wading in water, there is a risk of being bitten.

Tiger snakes are highly venomous and their bite can be dangerous to humans. They possess a potent neurotoxic venom that can cause paralysis and even death if not treated promptly. Therefore, it is important to exercise caution when in areas where tiger snakes are known to inhabit, especially when in or near water.

It is worth noting that tiger snakes are not typically aggressive towards humans and will generally only bite if they feel threatened or cornered. However, if you accidentally come into contact with a tiger snake while swimming, it may perceive you as a threat and bite in self-defense.

It is also important to consider that tiger snakes are highly adaptable and can climb into trees and buildings. So, even if you are not in water, encountering a tiger snake in other environments is still a possibility. Their ability to climb means that they can potentially reach elevated areas, including trees and man-made structures.

To minimize the risk of encountering a tiger snake and being bitten, it is advisable to be aware of your surroundings when in areas where they are known to be present. This includes keeping an eye out for any signs of their presence, such as shed skins or droppings. Additionally, it is a good idea to avoid swimming in areas where tiger snakes are known to inhabit, especially if the water is murky or you cannot see the bottom.

If you do happen to come across a tiger snake in water or any other environment, it is best to give the snake a wide berth and slowly back away to avoid provoking it. Trying to handle or capture the snake yourself is highly discouraged and should be left to trained professionals.

While tiger snakes are primarily ground-dwelling, they are capable of swimming through water and can bite if they feel threatened. It is important to exercise caution and be aware of your surroundings when in areas where tiger snakes are known to inhabit, both in and out of water.