Elapidae
Centralian Bandy-bandy
Vermicella vermiformis
Centralian Bandy Bandy is a black-and-white banded burrowing snake recorded in the Northern Territory, including the MacDonnell Ranges west of Alice Springs.
Venomous
Identification and appearance
The body has contrasting black-and-white rings. Similar-looking bandy-bandies occur elsewhere, so colour and pattern alone are not enough for identification.
Other names
Worm-like Bandy Bandy
Typical length
AROD lists a species average of 52 cm; these figures do not establish a typical adult interval.
Key identification features
- Black-and-white ringed body
- Burrowing snake
Where it is found
Northern Territory, including the MacDonnell Ranges west of Alice Springs.
Activity
Usually encountered above ground at night, often after rain.
Diet
Blind snakes.
Reproduction
Egg-laying.
Medical significance
For any suspected snakebite, call 000 and follow snakebite first aid. 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.
Sources checked
- Australian Reptile Online Database — Vermicella vermiformis (2026-09-25)
- The Reptile Database — Vermicella vermiformis (2026-09-25)
- McDonald & Luck 2014 — Centralian Bandy Bandy habitat study (2026-09-26)
- Keogh and Smith 1996 — Vermicella revision (2026-09-26)
Still not sure?
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A profile is a guide, not a reason to approach or handle a snake.