Crowned Snake
Cacophis squamulosus
The largest of the crowned snakes, a secretive nocturnal elapid of eastern Australian forests, named for its pale head marking.
- Venomous?
- Mildly venomous
- Adult length
- 0.4-0.7 m (1.3-2.3 ft)
- Range
- Eastern Australia, from southeastern Queensland to central New South Wales
Found a snake like this?
Identify any snake from a photo, free.
Overview
The Crowned Snake, also known as the Eastern Crowned Snake, is the largest species within the crowned snake genus Cacophis, found across a wide swath of eastern Australia. It shares the genus's characteristic pale nape band.
Despite being venomous, it is a shy, secretive species that spends most of its time hidden and poses little risk to humans.
How to identify it
- Dark brown to blackish dorsal coloration
- Pale cream to yellowish crown-like band across the head and nape
- Smooth, glossy scales
- Larger and more robust than other Cacophis species
- Round pupil
- Adults typically 40-70 cm
- Larger size distinguishes it from the Dwarf and Northern Dwarf Crowned Snakes
Habitat & range
Found in forests, woodlands, and urban bushland fringes across its eastern Australian range. Shelters under logs, rocks, leaf litter, and man-made debris such as roofing iron.
Behavior, diet & reproduction
Nocturnal and secretive, often found sheltering under surface debris during the day. Preys mainly on skinks and their eggs, and occasionally other small reptiles. Reproduces by laying eggs.
Frequently asked questions
Is the Crowned Snake dangerous?
It is mildly venomous but rarely bites and poses minimal risk to humans.
What makes the Crowned Snake unique among its genus?
It is the largest of the crowned snakes (Cacophis genus).
Where does the Crowned Snake live?
It is found in forests and woodlands of eastern Australia, from southeastern Queensland to central New South Wales.
What does the Crowned Snake eat?
It feeds mainly on skinks and their eggs.
Crowned Snake guides
In-depth guides for identifying and understanding Crowned Snake.
