Olive-Headed Sea Snake
Hydrophis major
A moderately large sea snake with an olive-toned head and faint banding, found in the estuarine and coastal waters of northern Australia.
- Venomous?
- Venomous
- Adult length
- 1.0-1.5 m (3.3-5 ft)
- Range
- Coastal waters of northern Australia and southern New Guinea
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Overview
The olive-headed sea snake is a moderately large marine elapid found along the coasts of northern Australia and southern New Guinea. Its common name references the olive-brown tone typically seen on its head and forebody.
It possesses venom used to subdue fish prey and, while capable of biting if provoked, is generally not considered aggressive toward humans.
How to identify it
- Moderately robust body
- Olive-brown to grayish-olive head and forebody, often with a paler, more grayish tone posteriorly
- Faint or indistinct darker crossbands, sometimes more visible in juveniles
- Small head, paddle-shaped tail
- Adults typically 1.0-1.5 m
Habitat & range
Found in shallow coastal waters, estuaries, and river mouths, typically over soft sediment. Range covers northern Australian coasts and southern New Guinea.
Behavior, diet & reproduction
Forages for fish along muddy and sandy coastal bottoms, often in turbid water. Reproduction is ovoviviparous, with live young born at sea.
Frequently asked questions
How is the olive-headed sea snake identified?
By its olive-brown head and forebody contrasting with a paler posterior, and generally faint banding.
Is it venomous?
Yes, though it is not considered aggressive toward humans.
Where is it found?
In coastal waters of northern Australia and southern New Guinea.
Does it lay eggs?
No, it bears live young at sea rather than laying eggs.
Olive-Headed Sea Snake guides
In-depth guides for identifying and understanding Olive-Headed Sea Snake.
