Speckled Brown Snake
Pseudonaja guttata
A medium-sized brown snake species from the interior of Queensland, named for the fine speckled pattern often present on its scales.
- Venomous?
- Venomous
- Adult length
- 0.8-1.3 m (2.6-4.3 ft)
- Range
- Interior Queensland and adjacent parts of Australia
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Overview
The Speckled Brown Snake is a lesser-known member of the Pseudonaja genus, restricted mainly to the arid and semi-arid interior of Queensland. Like its relatives, it is venomous and considered potentially dangerous.
It remains relatively poorly studied due to its remote range and low encounter rate with humans.
How to identify it
- Light to medium brown background color with fine dark speckling across the scales
- Smooth scales
- Round pupils, alert eyes typical of brown snakes
- Slender build
- Distinguished from other brown snakes by the density and pattern of speckling
Habitat & range
Found in arid grassland, floodplains, and scrubland of interior Queensland and surrounding regions.
Behavior, diet & reproduction
Diurnal, active during warmer parts of the day. Feeds on small reptiles and mammals. Alert and fast-moving, tending to flee rather than confront when possible. Reproduces by egg-laying.
Frequently asked questions
Is the Speckled Brown Snake venomous?
Yes, it is a venomous elapid.
Where is it found?
In the arid interior of Queensland, Australia.
How can I identify it?
Look for its light brown body with fine dark speckling across the scales.
What does it eat?
Small reptiles and mammals.
Speckled Brown Snake guides
In-depth guides for identifying and understanding Speckled Brown Snake.
