Dunmall's Snake
Furina dunmalli
A rare, secretive elapid of inland brigalow woodland in southern Queensland and northern New South Wales.
- Venomous?
- Mildly venomous
- Adult length
- 0.4-0.6 m (16-24 in)
- Range
- Southern Queensland and northern New South Wales, Australia
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Overview
Dunmall's snake is a poorly known, secretive elapid restricted to the brigalow woodland belt of southern inland Queensland and northern New South Wales. Habitat loss from land clearing has made it a species of conservation concern.
It shares the general body form and nocturnal, reptile-hunting habits of other Furina species but lacks the vivid nape coloring of some relatives.
How to identify it
- Slender body with smooth scales
- Grey-brown to olive dorsal coloration, generally more subdued than related Furina species
- Head not strongly patterned with bright nape coloring
- Pale belly
- Distinguished from colorful relatives by its plainer coloration and restricted brigalow range
Habitat & range
Restricted mainly to brigalow woodland and associated vegetation communities in inland southern Queensland and northern New South Wales, a habitat type heavily impacted by clearing.
Behavior, diet & reproduction
Nocturnal and secretive, sheltering under logs, bark, and soil cracks by day. Feeds on small reptiles. Considered vulnerable due to ongoing habitat loss. Reproduces by laying eggs.
Frequently asked questions
Why is Dunmall's snake of conservation concern?
Because its brigalow woodland habitat has been extensively cleared for agriculture.
Is it dangerous?
It is mildly venomous but very rarely encountered by people.
Where is it found?
Brigalow woodland areas of southern Queensland and northern New South Wales.
What does it eat?
Small reptiles, following the pattern of related Furina species.
Dunmall's Snake guides
In-depth guides for identifying and understanding Dunmall's Snake.
