Stephens' Banded Snake
Hoplocephalus stephensii
A boldly banded, tree-dwelling elapid found in coastal forests of eastern Australia.
- Venomous?
- Venomous
- Adult length
- 0.5-1 m (1.6-3.3 ft)
- Range
- Coastal eastern Australia from central New South Wales to southeastern Queensland
Found a snake like this?
Identify any snake from a photo, free.
Overview
Stephens' Banded Snake is a distinctively patterned, semi-arboreal elapid found along the coastal forests of eastern Australia. It is closely related to the broad-headed and pale-headed snakes within the genus Hoplocephalus.
It is well adapted to life in trees, often found sheltering in hollows and under bark, and is more strongly banded than its close relatives.
How to identify it
- Body with bold alternating dark brown and cream to yellowish bands
- Broad, somewhat flattened head
- Smooth scales
- Vertically elliptical pupil
- Moderately robust body
- Distinguished from the Pale-Headed Snake by its bolder, more contrasting banded pattern
Habitat & range
Found in coastal rainforests, wet eucalypt forests, and adjacent woodlands from central New South Wales to southeastern Queensland. Shelters in tree hollows and under bark.
Behavior, diet & reproduction
Nocturnal and semi-arboreal, often found in tree hollows during the day. Feeds on small mammals, birds, and reptiles. Considered vulnerable in parts of its range due to loss of hollow-bearing trees. Gives birth to live young.
Frequently asked questions
Is Stephens' Banded Snake dangerous?
Yes, it is venomous, though it is nocturnal and secretive, reducing encounters with people.
Where does it typically shelter?
In tree hollows and under loose bark in coastal forests.
How does it differ from the Pale-Headed Snake?
It shows bolder, more contrasting body banding.
What does it eat?
Small mammals, birds, and reptiles.
Stephens' Banded Snake guides
In-depth guides for identifying and understanding Stephens' Banded Snake.
