Colubridae
Slaty-grey Snake
Stegonotus australis
A muscular, nocturnal snake recorded from the Northern Territory and Queensland.
Non-venomous
Identification and appearance
A muscular snake with an unpatterned brown, grey or black back and a pale belly. It forages on the ground and also climbs, mostly at night.
Typical length
The 2025 study reports sex-specific mean snout–vent lengths of 116 cm for males and 98 cm for females; these are not total lengths or typical-adult interval endpoints.
Body build
robust
Key identification features
- Muscular body
- Terrestrial and arboreal activity
- Northern Territory and Queensland records
Where it is found
Northern Territory, including the Fogg Dam population east of Darwin, and Queensland records in the current account.
Activity
Nocturnal; terrestrial and arboreal.
Diet
Varied vertebrate prey and eggs.
Reproduction
Egg-laying.
Medical significance
Non-venomous, but capable of biting. If identity is uncertain and a bite is suspected, call 000 and follow snakebite first aid.
What to do if you encounter one
Keep clear and do not handle it. Use a qualified snake catcher or local wildlife authority if it is trapped near people.
Taxonomy notes
The accepted name Stegonotus australis is linked to former cucullatus usage; the 2025 Fogg Dam study provides direct Northern Territory evidence in addition to the Queensland catalogue records.
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A profile is a guide, not a reason to approach or handle a snake.