Red-Naped Snake
Furina diadema
A small elapid with a distinctive reddish patch on the back of the neck, found across eastern Australia.
- Venomous?
- Mildly venomous
- Adult length
- 0.25-0.4 m (10-16 in)
- Range
- Eastern and southeastern Australia
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Overview
The red-naped snake is a small, secretive elapid recognizable by the vivid reddish-orange patch on its nape, contrasting with its otherwise pale body. It ranges widely across the drier woodlands of eastern Australia.
It is part of the Furina group of small elapids that specialize in feeding on small, secretive reptiles such as skinks.
How to identify it
- Small, slender body with smooth scales
- Pale grey to cream body with a black head and a bright reddish-orange patch on the nape
- Black collar-like marking behind the head
- Small size and vivid nape patch distinguish it from similar small elapids
Habitat & range
Found in dry woodland, shrubland, and grassland across inland and coastal eastern Australia, sheltering under rocks, logs, and leaf litter.
Behavior, diet & reproduction
Nocturnal and secretive. Feeds mainly on small skinks. Lays eggs, often in communal sites shared with other small reptiles.
Frequently asked questions
What is distinctive about the red-naped snake?
A bright reddish-orange patch on the back of the neck, contrasting with a black head.
Is it dangerous?
It is mildly venomous but poses little risk to humans.
Where does it live?
Dry woodland and grassland habitats across eastern Australia.
What does it eat?
Mainly small skinks.
Red-Naped Snake guides
In-depth guides for identifying and understanding Red-Naped Snake.
