Australian Coral Snake
Brachyurophis australis
Weakly Venomous
Other common names: Coral Snake, Shovel-nosed Snake
Species Profile
Australian Coral Snake
Significance to Humans
Weakly Venomous
The Australian Coral snake is virtually harmless and not considered medically important. Though weakly venomous, it is generally considered harmless due to its inoffensive nature and reluctance to bite.
General Description
This small snake is smooth and glossy, featuring numerous narrow, ragged-edge bands that range in colour from reddish-brown through orange-red to coral-pink. These bands are interspersed between narrow bands of creamy pale scales with dark edges. It has a black blotch or bar on its head and a broad black bar across its neck. The belly is bright creamy white. The tip of its snout has a sharp, upturned cutting edge (or rostral scale) that is used for burrowing. Midbody scales at 17 rows.
Average Length
Averages around 30cm in length.
Habitat in SE Qld
Found in a wide variety of habitats, but it particularly prefers areas with dry, sandy soils.
General habits
The Australian Coral snake is uncommonly seen and little is known about its habits. It is nocturnally active, primarily functioning as a burrowing snake that generally stays beneath the soil and litter. However, it may be occasionally found above ground on warm nights. During the day, it seeks shelter under the soil surface or under stumps, rocks, and logs.
Diet
Primarily consists of skinks and other lizards, as well as reptile eggs.
Local distribution
This species can be found in the Brisbane & Lockyer Valleys, Ipswich, Greenbank, Camira, and Mt Crosby areas.
Around the home
The Australian Coral snake is infrequently encountered around homes. Most specimens discovered in backyard swimming pools are the result of the snake falling in during its nocturnal movements.
Australian Coral Snake Gallery
