King's Sea Snake
Hydrophis kingii
A large-headed, robust sea snake found in the coastal waters of northern Australia, notable for its thick body and small tail.
- Venomous?
- Venomous
- Adult length
- 1.2-1.6 m (4-5.2 ft)
- Range
- Coastal waters of northern Australia and southern New Guinea
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Overview
King's sea snake is a distinctively robust species with a disproportionately large head relative to its body, a feature that aids in identification among northern Australian sea snakes. It occupies coastal waters shared by numerous other Hydrophis species.
Like many Australian sea snakes, much of what is known about its ecology comes from bycatch records in commercial trawl fisheries operating along the northern coastline.
How to identify it
- Notably large, bulbous head relative to a comparatively slender neck and body
- Pale body with dark crossbands or blotches
- Thick, muscular body tapering to a paddle-shaped tail
- Smooth scales typical of true sea snakes
- Large head-to-neck size disparity is a key distinguishing trait
Habitat & range
Inhabits shallow coastal and continental shelf waters off northern Australia and southern New Guinea, often over sandy or muddy substrates.
Behavior, diet & reproduction
Feeds primarily on fish, likely including burrowing or eel-like species given its large head suited for handling substantial prey. Fully marine, giving birth to live young in the water. Not considered aggressive toward humans.
Frequently asked questions
Is King's sea snake dangerous?
It is venomous, but it poses little threat to humans as it avoids confrontation.
Where does it live?
In coastal waters off northern Australia and southern New Guinea.
What is distinctive about its appearance?
Its notably large, bulbous head compared to a slender body and neck.
What does it eat?
Fish, likely including larger or eel-like prey suited to its robust head.
King's Sea Snake guides
In-depth guides for identifying and understanding King's Sea Snake.
