Elapidae

Western Turtle-headed Sea Snake

Emydocephalus orarius

A large coastal Western Australian sea snake with 19–21 body bands. The current diagnosis records a maximum total length of 116 cm, with records from Shark Bay through the Pilbara to the Kimberley.

Unknown

Identification and appearance

A large coastal Emydocephalus with a banded body; the current diagnosis notes 19–21 bands and enlarged ventral tubercles in adult males.

Typical length

The current diagnosis reports a maximum recorded total length of 116 cm.

Key identification features

Large coastal sea snake
19–21 body bands
Enlarged ventral tubercles in adult males

Where it is found

Coastal Western Australia from Shark Bay through the Pilbara to the Kimberley; the original-description material includes soft-bottom trawl habitats.

Habitat

Most known specimens came from trawls over soft seabeds off Western Australia; its habitat preferences remain poorly understood.

Medical significance

The consulted sources do not establish medical significance. Do not handle the snake or infer safety from appearance, size or name. Call 000 and follow snakebite first aid for any suspected bite.

What to do if you encounter one

Keep clear and do not handle, catch or disentangle a sea snake. Seek qualified wildlife help if a stranded animal or fishing-gear entanglement requires attention.

Similar-looking snakes

Eastern Turtle-headed Sea Snake is a close comparison. The western species was described in 2020 using genetic evidence and a combination of physical features, including scale arrangement and colour pattern. Colour or habitat alone is not a reliable way to distinguish them.

Sources checked

The Reptile Database — Emydocephalus orarius (2026-09-25)
Nankivell et al. 2020 — original description of Emydocephalus orarius (2026-09-26)

For any suspected snakebite, call 000 and follow snakebite first aid.

Snake bite first aid

Call 000 for an ambulance for any suspected snakebite, even if the person feels well.

If they are unresponsive and not breathing normally, start CPR immediately. CPR takes priority over bandaging.

If the person is unresponsive but breathing normally, gently place them on their side, keep their airway open and keep checking their breathing. Follow the emergency operator’s instructions.

Keep them lying still and reassured. For an arm or leg bite, apply a firm pressure bandage over the bite and along the whole limb, then splint it. Leave the bandage and splint in place for hospital staff. Stay with the person and monitor breathing.

Do not wash, cut or suck the bite, apply a tourniquet, or try to catch or kill the snake.

Based on ANZCOR snakebite guidance and pressure immobilisation guidance. Sources checked 25–26 September 2026.

Read the full first-aid guide →

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