Brown Tree Snake
Boiga irregularis
Weakly Venomous
Other common names: Night Tiger, Dolls Eye Snake, Eastern Brown Tree Snake
Species Profile
Brown Tree Snake
Significance to Humans
Weakly Venomous
There is ongoing debate about the toxicity of this species, but most authorities consider it to pose minimal risk to everyone except young children.
General Description
The Brown Tree Snakes has a slender body with a distinct bulbous head that is well-defined from its narrow neck. It possesses large eyes with vertical pupils. Its upper body colouration ranges from brown to reddish-brown or even dark orange, featuring irregular and indistinct darker cross-bands. The belly is creamy, apricot, or orange. Notably, a central row of mid-body scales runs down the centre of the back and is larger than the surrounding mid-body scales. When threatened, it adopts a strong defensive “S” shaped posture. Midbody scales at 19 -23 rows.
Average Length
Average length is 1.2 metres, though some specimens have been recorded up to 1.8 metres.
Habitat in SE Qld
This species occupies a wide range of habitats in Southeast Queensland, including rainforests, wet and dry forests, woodlands, heathlands, melaleuca swamps, rocky outcrops, as well as suburban backyards and gardens. It is primarily nocturnal and seeks shelter during the day.
General habits
Active at night (nocturnal).
Diet
Diet primarily consists of birds and their eggs, along with small mammals. Additionally, it may consume some frogs and reptiles.
Local distribution
The Brown Tree Snake is commonly found throughout Brisbane, especially in areas with well-established tree cover.
Around the home
Brown Tree snakes are skilled climbers and are often spotted in the dense foliage of trees and shrubs, as well as in roofs, rafters, and other above-ground locations. It is frequently encountered when seeking out caged birds for an easy meal.
Brown Tree Snake Gallery
