Pale-Headed Snake
Hoplocephalus bitorquatus
An arboreal elapid with a pale head, found in woodlands of eastern Australia and often sheltering under loose tree bark.
- Venomous?
- Venomous
- Adult length
- 0.5-0.9 m (1.6-3 ft)
- Range
- Eastern Australia from central Queensland to northern New South Wales
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Overview
The Pale-Headed Snake is a moderately sized elapid found in the woodlands of eastern Australia, notable for its habit of sheltering beneath loose, exfoliating bark on trees. Its pale head contrasts with a darker, banded body.
It is closely related to the broad-headed and Stephens' banded snakes, sharing the genus Hoplocephalus and a similarly semi-arboreal lifestyle.
How to identify it
- Grey to olive-brown body with faint darker crossbands
- Notably pale grey to cream head, giving the species its name
- Smooth scales
- Vertically elliptical pupil
- Moderately slender body
- Distinguished from Stephens' banded snake by less distinct banding and paler head coloration
Habitat & range
Found in open woodlands and forests along river systems in eastern Australia, often sheltering under loose bark on eucalypts and other trees.
Behavior, diet & reproduction
Nocturnal and semi-arboreal, frequently found under exfoliating bark by day. Feeds on small mammals, birds, and reptiles. Considered vulnerable in parts of its range due to habitat clearing. Gives birth to live young.
Frequently asked questions
Is the Pale-Headed Snake dangerous?
Yes, it is venomous, though it is shy, nocturnal, and rarely encountered.
Where does it shelter during the day?
Typically under loose, peeling bark on trees such as eucalypts.
How can it be distinguished from Stephens' Banded Snake?
It has a paler head and less distinct body banding.
What does it eat?
Small mammals, birds, and reptiles.
Pale-Headed Snake guides
In-depth guides for identifying and understanding Pale-Headed Snake.
