An Australian captive snake has smashed the world record for the most venom produced in a single milking. Cyclone, a coastal taipan, ejected over 0.18 ounces (5.2 grams) of venom in one bite, three times the average amount for its species. This venomous payload is enough to kill 400 humans, according to the Australian Reptile Park, located 30 miles north of Sydney.
“Cyclone is one of our most dangerous snakes here at the park and is known for being quite unpredictable and keeping us all on our toes,” said Tim Collett, the operations manager at the park. Coastal taipans, native to coastal regions in northern and eastern Australia, are among the most venomous snakes in the world. These snakes, reaching up to 6.6 feet (2 meters) long, are characterized by their rectangular head, pale snout, large orange-brown eyes, and bodies that range in color from yellow to reddish-brown, dark brown, and almost black.
While not the most venomous snake globally, coastal taipans are known for their aggression and bites have unfortunately resulted in fatalities annually. The previous record for venom yield was held by another coastal taipan named Whiplash, who produced 0.17 ounces (4.9 g) of venom in 2022.
The Australian Reptile Park is the only facility in Australia that milks taipans for antivenom production. Keepers also extract venom from other deadly snakes like eastern brown snakes, tiger snakes, death adders, and black snakes. The process of milking these venomous creatures is inherently dangerous, requiring keepers to secure the snake, guide its fangs into a large shot glass covered with plastic, and induce the snake to deliver its lethal bite. The extracted venom is then freeze-dried, dehydrated at low temperatures, and sent to a vaccine manufacturer.
Cyclone’s record-breaking venom contribution will play a crucial role in saving lives. In Australia, approximately 2,000 snakebites are reported annually, resulting in around 500 hospital admissions and an average of 2 deaths. Between 2005 and 2015, coastal taipans were responsible for biting 31 people, and while no deaths were reported during that period, another study recorded at least one fatality between 2000 and 2016. This remarkable venom yield from Cyclone emphasizes the critical role the Australian Reptile Park plays in producing antivenom, a life-saving treatment for victims of snakebites.
