Typhlopidae
Robust Blind Snake
Anilios ligatus
The Robust Blind Snake is a widespread Australian blind snake with a moderately stout body. Specialist descriptions separate it from similar forms using the rounded snout and head scales.
Non-venomous
Identification and appearance
The specialist diagnosis describes a moderately stout blind snake with a rounded snout in profile. Close scale characters are not suitable for ordinary encounters, so leave the animal alone.
Typical length
Storr (1981) recorded a total-length sample maximum of 31.9 cm (5 specimens). Shea (2015) questions the compiled 50 cm maximum and cites 39.2 cm snout-to-vent length from another series; these measurements are not interchangeable. Species maximum unresolved.
Body build
robust
Head appearance
rounded snout
Key identification features
- Moderately stout blind-snake form
- Rounded snout in profile
- Widespread mainland Australian range
Where it is found
Recorded in New South Wales, Northern Territory, Queensland, South Australia, Victoria and Western Australia.
Habitat
Cape York specimens resembling this species were found in tall, open eucalypt woodland and forest on sandy or loamy soils with grassy ground cover. Their exact identity still needs genetic investigation.
Diet
A 1993 museum study recorded ant larvae and pupae in snakes identified as this species, with larger specimens also eating the young of Myrmecia ants.
Reproduction
Egg-laying.
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
Allow it to disappear into soil or cover and keep pets away.
Similar-looking snakes
The robust build can overlap with other blind snakes. Specialist scale characters should not be used as a reason to handle one.
Taxonomy notes
The Reptile Database records several historical generic combinations; the approved current name is Anilios ligatus.
Sources checked
- Australian Reptile Online Database — Robust blind snake (2026-09-25)
- The Reptile Database — Anilios ligatus (2026-09-25)
- Queensland Government — Snakes near you: Cairns region (2026-09-25)
- Storr (1981) — measured blind-snake series (2026-09-26)
- Shea (2015), p. 111 — review of compiled length figures (2026-09-26)
- Webb & Shine 1993, Dietary Habits of Australian Blindsnakes (2026-09-26)
- Queensland Museum — blind-snake observations (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.