Head and forebody on exposed soil.
Typhlopidae
No-spined Blind Snake
Anilios aspina
The No-spined Blind Snake is a poorly known Queensland blind snake. One documented feature is the absence of a tail spine, although this is not a feature to check by handling a live snake.
Non-venomous
Identification and appearance
This is a small, underground blind snake and is unlikely to be identified safely from a brief encounter. The absence of a tail spine is a research identification character, not a reason to handle one.
Other names
Blunt-tailed Blind Snake, Round-tailed Blind Snake
Typical length
AROD reports a species average of about 27.8 cm; a maximum was not given on the consulted page.
Key identification features
- Blind-snake form
- Tail lacks the spine described for other Australian blind snakes
- Poorly known species with records near Barcaldine and Julia Creek
Where it is found
Known from a small number of records near Barcaldine and Julia Creek in Queensland; AROD cites a 2012 Julia Creek record in addition to the original specimens.
Habitat
Recorded in Queensland’s Mitchell Grass Downs. One specimen was found beneath a small rock on open grassland south of Julia Creek; its broader habitat use remains poorly known.
Reproduction
Egg-laying.
Medical significance
Blind snakes are non-venomous. Do not handle an unfamiliar snake or rely on a brief sighting to identify it.
What to do if you encounter one
Do not dig for, pick up or corner it. Keep people and pets back and allow it to disappear into cover.
Similar-looking snakes
Blind snakes can be difficult to distinguish in the field. A photograph may not show the features needed for a species-level identification.
Taxonomy notes
AROD discusses the species under its former combination Ramphotyphlops aspina; the current name is Anilios aspina. A Queensland Museum paper suggests the known records may represent a Mitchell Grass Downs endemic, but also stresses that the species is poorly known.
Sources checked
- Australian Reptile Online Database — No-spined blind snake (2026-09-25)
- The Reptile Database — Anilios aspina (2026-09-25)
- Queensland Museum — Additional information on Ramphotyphlops aspina (2026-09-25)
- NSW Government — Non-venomous blind snakes (2026-09-26)
Still not sure?
Compare this snake with more clues.
A profile is a guide, not a reason to approach or handle a snake.