Mangrove Sea Snake

Identification and appearance

Adults have a grey body crossed by dark bands that can merge or fade along the sides. Young snakes are much paler, making their dark bands more conspicuous.

Typical length

Smith (1974) reports specimens up to 661 mm long. This is not a population average; the account does not explicitly label that measurement as total length or snout–vent length.

Head appearance

Small head

Key identification features

• Grey adults with dark, sometimes merging bands
• Young snakes have a much paler ground colour
• Small head

Where it is found

Western Australia; a Northern Territory occurrence is possible but not resolved here.

Activity

Smith (1974) describes movement with the tides in mangrove creeks, including searching crab holes for food.

Reproduction

Live-bearing.

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 your distance in the water or on shore. Do not touch, catch or return a stranded snake to the water. Keep people and pets away and contact local wildlife assistance.