Yellow-Faced Whipsnake
Demansia psammophis
A slender, fast-moving Australian elapid named for the distinctive yellowish marking on its face, active by day and generally shy toward humans.
- Venomous?
- Mildly venomous
- Adult length
- 0.6-1.0 m (2-3.3 ft)
- Range
- Southern and eastern Australia
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Overview
The Yellow-Faced Whipsnake is a slim, agile elapid found across much of southern and eastern Australia. It belongs to the whipsnake genus Demansia, known for their speed and diurnal, active foraging behavior.
While venomous, its bite is considered only mildly dangerous to humans, and it is generally regarded as a fast-fleeing, inoffensive species.
How to identify it
- Slender body, olive-gray to bluish-gray in color
- Distinctive pale yellow marking below and behind the eye, giving rise to its common name
- Smooth scales
- Large eyes with round pupils, typical of active diurnal hunters
- Long, whip-like tapering tail
Habitat & range
Found in a variety of habitats including woodland, grassland, heath, and rocky outcrops across southern and eastern Australia.
Behavior, diet & reproduction
Highly active and fast-moving during the day, hunting by sight for lizards, which make up the bulk of its diet. Alert and quick to flee when disturbed, though it may bite if cornered or handled. Reproduces by egg-laying.
Frequently asked questions
Is the Yellow-Faced Whipsnake dangerous?
It is mildly venomous, and while bites can cause local symptoms, it is not considered highly dangerous.
How can I identify it?
Look for its slender build, fast movement, and a pale yellow mark near the eye.
What does it eat?
Primarily lizards, which it hunts actively during the day.
Where is it found?
Across southern and eastern Australia in a range of open habitats.
Yellow-Faced Whipsnake guides
In-depth guides for identifying and understanding Yellow-Faced Whipsnake.
