SOUTHERN DWARF-CROWNED SNAKE
Significance to Humans:
Not considered dangerous to humans. All crowned snakes are reluctant biters, relying more on bluff display than bite. They are weakly venomous and have tiny mouths and short fangs. They will generally rear up & 'mock strike' with mouth closed, more of a 'head butt'. If bitten, as with any snake bite, apply correct first aid and seek medical attention.
General description:
The Dwarf Crowned Snake has a very narrow yellow collar at the back of the head and its belly is yellow with thin black bands. This, the smallest of the crowned snakes, is fully grown at only 25 cm.
Average Length:
15-25 cm
Habitat in SE Qld:
Moist sheltered areas within forests, woodlands and heathland.
General habits:
Secretive, nocturnal snakes. By day, they shelter in slightly moist situations beneath rocks, logs and mats of leaf-litter. In the backyard, compost heaps and rockeries provide ideal habitats. After dark, these snakes emerge to hunt lizards, particularly skinks. Since the bulk of their prey consists of swift sun- loving species, it seems likely that these are captured at night as they sleep. Crowned snakes are largely terrestrial (ground dwelling).
Diet:
Lizard & skink specialist.
Local distribution:
The least encountered on the Sunshine Coast of the crowned snakes. Prefers wetter forested suburbs including but not limited to the Sunshine Coast hinterland, Nambour, Buderim, Beerwah, Nambour and Doonan.
Around the home:
Compost heaps, moist garden areas with abundant leaf-litter, and around rockeries provide ideal habitat. Often taken by roaming cats at night.
WEAKLY-VENOMOUS
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