A group of researchers has made a fascinating discovery - they found a new species of venomous snake.

Australia is well-known for its variety of snakes, spiders, and other creepy crawlies, which has always made me cautious about visiting. And now, there's news of yet another venomous snake being added to the list.

The Western Australian Museum, the South Australian Museum, and the University of Adelaide jointly uncovered a new type of whip snake, known as the desert whip snake. This brings the total number of whip snake species in Australia to 15.

If you live in the outback or an area with low rainfall in the Northern Territory, Queensland, South Australia, or Western Australia, be on the lookout and take precautions to snake-proof your surroundings.

Dr. James Nankivell, a DNA researcher from the University of Adelaide, played a key role in the discovery. He described the desert whip snake as having a "blueish body with a copper head and tail" and less black on its scales compared to its closest relative.

Based on "subtle but consistent differences in external appearance" and genetic evidence, the research team identified the desert whip snake as a new species.

Now, the question on everyone's mind - is it deadly?

Dr. Nankivell offers some reassurance by explaining that despite the desert whip snake being venomous, its venom is only considered to be "mild."

"It's bite - while painful - is unlikely to cause humans any serious harm."

"Bites from whip snakes are extremely rare as they are very shy and tend to flee at the first sign of danger."

As reported by 7 News, the snake reaches a maximum length of 89cm, which is not too intimidating. Its preferred food choice is lizards.

While this discovery is exciting for researchers and snake enthusiasts, it might not be as thrilling for ophidiophobes (those with a fear of snakes). Dr. Nakivell points out that the study continues to shed light on the abundant variety of reptiles inhabiting the deserts of Australia.

"Our country is home to more species of reptile than anywhere else in the world and there are still even more species just waiting to be discovered," he concluded.