Yellow-Naped Snake
Furina barnardi
A small elapid marked with a pale yellow nape patch, found in woodland habitats of eastern Queensland.
- Venomous?
- Mildly venomous
- Adult length
- 0.25-0.4 m (10-16 in)
- Range
- Eastern Queensland, Australia
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Overview
The yellow-naped snake is a small, secretive elapid found in eastern Queensland, closely related to the red-naped and orange-naped snakes. It is distinguished by a yellowish patch on the nape rather than red or orange.
Like its relatives, it is a nocturnal predator of small lizards, rarely encountered due to its cryptic habits.
How to identify it
- Small, slender body
- Pale body with a black head and a yellowish patch on the nape
- Black collar marking behind the head
- Smooth scales
- Nape color distinguishes it from the red-naped and orange-naped snakes
Habitat & range
Found in dry woodland and forest habitats of eastern Queensland, sheltering under logs, bark, and leaf litter.
Behavior, diet & reproduction
Nocturnal and secretive, foraging at night for small lizards, particularly skinks. Reproduces by laying eggs.
Frequently asked questions
How is the yellow-naped snake distinguished from similar species?
By the yellowish, rather than red or orange, patch on its nape.
Is it dangerous?
It is mildly venomous but not considered dangerous to humans.
Where does it live?
Woodland habitats of eastern Queensland.
What does it eat?
Mainly small skinks.
Yellow-Naped Snake guides
In-depth guides for identifying and understanding Yellow-Naped Snake.
