King Brown Snake
Pseudechis australis
One of Australia's largest snakes, a robust and widespread elapid found across much of the continent's interior.
- Adult length
- 1.5-2.5 m (5-8 ft), occasionally longer
- Range
- Most of mainland Australia, especially arid and semi-arid regions
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Overview
The King Brown Snake, also widely known as the Mulga Snake, is one of the largest snake species in Australia and among the most widely distributed, occupying a vast range across arid, semi-arid, and tropical regions of the continent. Despite its common name, it is not a true brown snake (genus Pseudonaja) but belongs to the black snake genus Pseudechis.
How to identify it
- Coloration variable, ranging from copper-brown to olive or dark brown, sometimes with a reddish tinge, and each scale often edged in a darker shade giving a reticulated look
- Heavy, robust body for an elapid, with a broad, somewhat rounded head
- Round pupils
- Smooth, glossy scales
- Pale to cream-colored belly
- Distinguished from true brown snakes (Pseudonaja) by its heavier build, broader head, and typically darker, more reticulated coloration
Habitat & range
Occupies an extremely broad range of habitats across mainland Australia, including arid deserts, semi-arid woodlands, grasslands, and tropical savanna, often sheltering in animal burrows, hollow logs, or rock crevices.
Behavior, diet & reproduction
Primarily nocturnal in hot regions, more diurnal in cooler areas or seasons. An opportunistic predator feeding on a wide range of prey including reptiles, frogs, birds, and small mammals, and sometimes preying on other snakes. Oviparous, laying eggs in sheltered locations. Known for a display involving flattening the neck and body when threatened.
Frequently asked questions
Is the King Brown Snake actually a brown snake?
No, despite its name it belongs to the black snake genus Pseudechis, not the true brown snake genus Pseudonaja.
Where is the King Brown Snake found?
Across most of mainland Australia, particularly arid, semi-arid, and tropical regions.
What does the King Brown Snake eat?
A wide variety of prey including reptiles, frogs, birds, and small mammals, and it is even known to eat other snakes.
King Brown Snake guides
In-depth guides for identifying and understanding King Brown Snake.
