Snake Identifier
Ringed Brown Snake (Pseudonaja modesta)
Pseudonaja modesta 01 - Christopher Watson by Christopher Watson (http://www.comebirdwatching.blogspot.com/), via Wikimedia Commons, licensed under CC BY-SA 3.0
Cobras & elapids

Ringed Brown Snake

Pseudonaja modesta

One of the smallest members of the brown snake genus, distinguished by dark banding around its body, found in arid central and western Australia.

Adult length
0.4-0.6 m (1.3-2 ft)
Range
Central and western Australia

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Overview

The Ringed Brown Snake is a small, distinctively banded species within the Pseudonaja genus, found across the arid interior of central and western Australia. Its diminutive size sets it apart from most of its larger relatives.

Its small size and secretive habits mean it is rarely encountered by humans.

How to identify it

  • Pale tan to orange-brown background with several distinct dark bands encircling the body
  • Smooth scales
  • Round pupils
  • Small overall size compared to other brown snakes
  • Distinct banding pattern helps separate it from other Pseudonaja species

Habitat & range

Inhabits arid sandy and rocky desert habitats, spinifex grassland, and scrub across central and western Australia.

Behavior, diet & reproduction

Primarily nocturnal or crepuscular, sheltering under debris or in burrows during the day. Feeds on small lizards, particularly skinks. Reproduces by egg-laying.

Frequently asked questions

How can I identify it?

Look for its small size and distinct dark bands encircling a pale brown body.

Where does it live?

Arid regions of central and western Australia.

What does it eat?

Mainly small lizards such as skinks.

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Ringed Brown Snake