Plain-nosed Burrowing Snake

Identification and appearance

The body is orange to brown, with dark scale edges creating a net-like pattern. A dark band crosses the nape, while black-and-white flecks mark the head and snout.

Other names

North-eastern Plain-nosed Burrowing Snake

Typical length

AROD lists a species average of 29 cm and a maximum of 40 cm; these figures do not establish a typical adult interval.

Key identification features

• Orange-to-brown body
• Dark nape band and head flecks
• Reticulated appearance from dark-edged scales

Where it is found

North-eastern Queensland.

Activity

Seldom seen; it probably spends much of its time below ground or among deep leaf litter.

Diet

Skinks.

Reproduction

Egg-laying.

Medical significance

For any suspected bite, call 000 and follow snakebite first aid. Do not wait for an identification result.

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.

Similar-looking snakes

Photo: Max Tibby · CC0 1.0 (Licence)

Elapidae

Unbanded Shovel-nosed Snake

Brachyurophis incinctus

Unbanded Shovel-nosed Snake is recorded from central Australia north to the Gulf of Carpentaria and across western Queensland. It is orange, pink or brown above, with dark-edged scales and local head and nape bands.

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