Unlike most snakes, the death adder will not necessarily retreat from humans and may therefore be more easily trodden upon or disturbed by the unwary. They are said to be less likely to strike unless actually touched than other venomous snakes, but great caution is still advised. Acanthophis praelongus from Cape York Peninsula. Death adders are readily identified by their short squat appearance. The head is broad and triangular, like that of a viper, the body short and thick and the tail thinner and distinct from the body.
Coloration is variable from region to region, and most death adders are banded to some degree.
The pupil is elliptical. Average length is approximately 0.65m, and the maximum recorded length is 1.1m. Average venom output is around 85mg, and the maximum recorded venom output 235mg. Its venom contains a post-synaptic neurotoxin, with negligible coagulant or myolytic activity.