Typhlopidae
Fassifern Blind Snake
Anilios insperatus
The Fassifern Blind Snake is a tiny, poorly known blind snake from south-east Queensland. The Reptile Database says it is known only from the type specimen.
Non-venomous
Identification and appearance
Specialist descriptions call it small and slender, with a slightly trilobed snout, small inconspicuous eyes and light, uniform colouring. These characters require specialist examination and should not be checked by handling.
Typical length
AROD reports 9.7 cm for the known specimen; a population average and maximum are not established.
Body build
slender
Head appearance
slightly trilobed snout
Key identification features
- Very small blind-snake form
- Light, uniform appearance in the specialist diagnosis
- Known only from the type specimen in the consulted account
Where it is found
Known from the Fassifern Valley / south-east Queensland; the Reptile Database says the species is known only from the holotype.
Habitat
The single specimen described in 2015 was collected under a small rock in pasture on a largely cleared hill-slope in the Fassifern Valley of south-eastern Queensland.
Medical significance
Blind snakes are non-venomous. If the snake has not been reliably identified and a bite is suspected, call 000 and follow snakebite first aid.
What to do if you encounter one
Do not search for or disturb it; keep clear and allow it to shelter or move away.
Similar-looking snakes
Other tiny Anilios blind snakes can look similar. The locality and specialist examination matter more than a casual colour comparison.
Taxonomy notes
The Reptile Database records only the holotype and flags this as one of Australia's most threatened reptile species. AROD notes an open-forest collection locality before clearing.
Sources checked
- Australian Reptile Online Database — Fassifern blind snake (2026-09-25)
- The Reptile Database — Anilios insperatus (2026-09-25)
- Queensland Government — Snakes near you: Cairns region (2026-09-25)
- Original species description and habitat account (2026-09-26)
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A profile is a guide, not a reason to approach or handle a snake.