Elapidae
Black-naped Burrowing Snake
Narophis bimaculatus
A very slender burrowing snake of Western Australia and South Australia.
Venomous
Identification and appearance
The narrow body can be reddish, yellowish or orange-brown, with dark markings concentrated around the head and nape. The head is narrow and flattened.
Other names
Western Black-naped Snake
Typical length
The cited study reports a maximum total length of 46.8 cm; this is not a typical adult interval.
Body build
slender
Head appearance
Narrow flattened head with dark head and nape markings
Key identification features
- Very slender burrowing form
- Narrow, depressed head
- Variable reddish to orange-brown colouration with dark head and nape markings
Where it is found
South Australia and Western Australia; the original Tasmania locality is treated as an error.
Reproduction
Egg-laying.
Medical significance
Treat any suspected bite as an emergency. Call 000 for an ambulance and do not wait for identification.
What to do if you encounter one
Keep well clear, leave a route for the snake to move away and do not approach for a closer look. If it is inside a building, keep people and pets away and contact a qualified local snake catcher.
Taxonomy notes
The original Tasmania locality is treated as an error. Older Neelaps and Simoselaps combinations are superseded by the current Narophis placement.
Sources checked
- The Reptile Database — Narophis bimaculatus (2026-09-25)
- Maryan et al. 2023 — Narophis taxonomy (2026-09-26)
- ANZCOR — Australian snake bite first aid (2026-09-26)
Still not sure?
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A profile is a guide, not a reason to approach or handle a snake.