Elapidae
Rosen’s Snake
Suta fasciata
A thick-bodied Western Australian snake with reddish-brown markings across a pale buff back.
Venomous
Identification and appearance
The pale buff back carries irregular reddish-brown crossbands. Some bands break into separate blotches. Its body is thick, and a dark streak runs through the eye along the side of the head.
Typical length
AROD lists a species average of 40 cm; these figures do not establish a typical adult interval.
Body build
robust
Key identification features
- Thick-bodied form
- Pale buff back
- Reddish-brown transverse markings or blotches
Where it is found
Western Australia; the cited museum revision documents numerous localities, not uniform occurrence throughout the state.
Diet
Hunts sleeping lizards, particularly dragons and geckos.
Reproduction
Live-bearing.
Medical significance
For any suspected snakebite, call 000 and follow snakebite first aid. Do not wait for identification.
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.
Sources checked
- Australian Reptile Online Database — Suta fasciata (2026-09-25)
- The Reptile Database — Suta fasciata (2026-09-25)
- Smith 1980 — Denisonia fasciata revision (2026-09-26)
- DBCA — Snakes of Western Australia (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.