White-Lipped Snake
Drysdalia coronoides
A small, cold-tolerant elapid of cool southern Australian habitats, named for the pale scales bordering its upper lip.
- Venomous?
- Mildly venomous
- Adult length
- 0.3-0.45 m (1-1.5 ft)
- Range
- Southeastern Australia, including Tasmania, Victoria, and southern New South Wales
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Overview
The White-Lipped Snake is a small elapid adapted to cooler climates than most Australian snakes, ranging into alpine and subalpine areas of Tasmania and the mainland southeast. It is one of the highest-altitude reptiles found in Australia.
Its venom is weak and it is not regarded as dangerous to people, though it plays an important ecological role as a predator of small skinks and frogs.
How to identify it
- Grey, olive, or reddish-brown dorsal coloration
- Distinct pale (white to cream) stripe along the upper lip, giving the species its name
- Slender build
- Smooth scales
- Round pupil
- Small head barely distinct from neck
- Adults usually 30-45 cm
- Lip stripe is the key distinguishing feature from other small elapids in its range
Habitat & range
Found in a wide range of cool-climate habitats including heathland, woodland, grassland, and alpine herbfields, from sea level up to high mountain elevations. Shelters under rocks, logs, and tussock grass.
Behavior, diet & reproduction
Diurnal, active during the day, especially in cooler weather when it basks to thermoregulate. Feeds mainly on small skinks and occasionally frogs. Gives birth to live young rather than laying eggs, an adaptation to cold climates.
Frequently asked questions
Is the White-Lipped Snake venomous?
Yes, but its venom is weak and it is not considered dangerous to humans.
Why is it called the White-Lipped Snake?
It has a distinctive pale white or cream stripe running along its upper lip.
Where does the White-Lipped Snake live?
It occurs in cool southeastern Australia, including Tasmania and alpine regions of the mainland.
Does the White-Lipped Snake lay eggs?
No, it gives birth to live young, an adaptation suited to its cold-climate habitat.
White-Lipped Snake guides
In-depth guides for identifying and understanding White-Lipped Snake.
