De Vis' Banded Snake
Denisonia devisi
A small, secretive elapid of inland eastern Australia's floodplains, closely related to the Ornamental Snake.
- Venomous?
- Mildly venomous
- Adult length
- 0.35-0.5 m (1.1-1.6 ft)
- Range
- Inland eastern Australia, including parts of Queensland and New South Wales
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Overview
De Vis' Banded Snake is a small elapid found in the semi-arid floodplains and clay soil regions of inland eastern Australia. It is closely related to the Ornamental Snake and shares a similar preference for cracking clay soil habitats.
It is rarely seen due to its secretive, soil-crack-dwelling habits and nocturnal activity.
How to identify it
- Grey to brown dorsal coloration, sometimes with faint banding or blotches
- Pale underside
- Moderately stout body
- Smooth scales
- Vertically elliptical pupil
- Adults typically 35-50 cm
- Distinguished from the Ornamental Snake mainly by range and subtler patterning
Habitat & range
Found in floodplain woodland and grassland with cracking clay soils across inland eastern Australia. Shelters in soil cracks, under logs, and in leaf litter.
Behavior, diet & reproduction
Nocturnal, remaining hidden in soil cracks during the day. Feeds mainly on frogs. Reproduces by giving birth to live young.
Frequently asked questions
Is De Vis' Banded Snake dangerous?
It is mildly venomous but not considered dangerous to humans.
Where does De Vis' Banded Snake live?
It occurs in floodplain habitats with cracking clay soils in inland eastern Australia.
What does De Vis' Banded Snake eat?
It preys mainly on frogs at night.
How is De Vis' Banded Snake related to the Ornamental Snake?
The two species are closely related within the same genus, sharing similar habitat preferences.
De Vis' Banded Snake guides
In-depth guides for identifying and understanding De Vis' Banded Snake.
