Orange-Naped Snake
Furina ornata
A slender elapid with a bold orange nape patch and black head, widespread across northern and eastern Australia.
- Venomous?
- Mildly venomous
- Adult length
- 0.4-0.6 m (16-24 in)
- Range
- Northern and eastern Australia
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Overview
The orange-naped snake is a slender, boldly marked elapid distributed across the tropical and subtropical regions of northern and eastern Australia. It is recognized by its glossy black head and vivid orange patch on the nape.
It is a nocturnal hunter of small reptiles, often found sheltering in suburban gardens as well as natural bushland.
How to identify it
- Slender body with smooth, glossy scales
- Pale grey to cream body with a glossy black head
- Bold orange to reddish-orange patch on the nape
- Black collar marking
- Distinguished from red-naped and yellow-naped snakes by brighter orange coloration and broader range
Habitat & range
Found in a wide range of habitats including woodland, forest edges, grassland, and suburban gardens across northern and eastern Australia.
Behavior, diet & reproduction
Nocturnal, sheltering by day under logs, rocks, and debris, including man-made materials in urban areas. Feeds mainly on small skinks. Lays eggs, sometimes in communal nesting sites.
Frequently asked questions
Where is the orange-naped snake commonly found?
Across northern and eastern Australia, including bushland and suburban gardens.
Is it dangerous?
It is mildly venomous but generally poses little risk to humans.
What does it eat?
Mainly small skinks.
How can it be identified?
By its glossy black head and bright orange patch on the back of the neck.
Orange-Naped Snake guides
In-depth guides for identifying and understanding Orange-Naped Snake.
