Tiger Snake
Notechis scutatus
Arguably one of Australia's most recognisable snakes, the Mainland Tiger Snake is one of the most commonly encountered species across the country. This is also true of the Mornington Peninsula. Along with the Lowland Copperhead, it is the most common species across the region.
Like the Lowland Copperhead, The Tiger Snake's main source of food is frogs and reptiles. However, it is a species that is a little more diverse in it's feeding habits and will also eat mammals and birds.
Seeking out prey such as rats and mice brings it into contact with humans.
Similarly, Tiger Snakes commonly eat nestling birds, which, surprising to many, makes it a very competent climber.
Whilst the venom of the Tiger Snake is extremely toxic, and bites must be treated seriously, it is a very shy species that will not attack humans as we are not a prey item.
It's willingness to defend itself when threatened or cornered has given it a reputation of being aggressive. This however is far from accurate, and it will nearly always choose to retreat if simply left alone.
The name "Tiger" is often apt when identifying this species. However, the Tiger Snake is one of the most variable species in the country, and it is not uncommon to find individuals that are completely without bands. Colours range from shades of brown, grey, red, blue/green right through to jet black. Variability may be specific to a location or region, but may also occur within a single population.
Lowland Copperhead
Austrelaps superbus
Common and widespread across Victoria, including the Mornington Peninsula, the Lowland Copperhead is one of two species of Austrelaps that occur in the state.
It is typically associated with bodies of water, where it feeds on frogs, lizards and snakes. It's habit of feeding on snakes does not exclude it's own kind, making the species highly cannibalistic.
Despite Tiger Snakes being perceived as the more "aggressive" species, they are often a prey item of the Copperhead, and it can seemingly overpower and consume individuals of similar size.
It is highly variable in colour, even within a single population, and is often mistaken for the Eastern Brown Snake and the Red Bellied Black Snake.