Red-naped Snake
Furina diadema
Weakly Venomous
Other common names: None known
Species Profile
Red-naped Snake
Significance to Humans
Weakly Venomous
The Red-naped snake is virtually harmless and not considered significant to human health. While it possesses weak venom, it is generally considered harmless due to its inoffensive nature and reluctance to bite.
General Description
This small, smooth snake exhibits a reddish-brown dorsal colouration, with individual scales outlined in black. Its distinguishing feature is a distinct red spot enclosed in black, which extends over the entire head and down the neck. The underside of the head is white and extends into a white belly.
Average Length
On average, the Red-naped snake measures about 35cm, although larger specimens up to 40cm have been recorded.
Habitat in SE Qld
The Red-naped snake tends to favour drier forest, woodland, and grassland areas in Southeast Queensland.
General habits
Being a nocturnal species, it is most active during the night.
Diet
Primarily consists of small skinks, which it forages for during its nocturnal movements.
Local distribution
The Red-naped snake is widespread throughout most suburbs of the greater Brisbane region. It is commonly found to the west of Brisbane, extending through Ipswich and the Brisbane Valley.
Around the home
This snake is occasionally found in backyard swimming pools after accidentally falling in during its nocturnal foraging. Unfortunately, it often falls prey to roaming cats. The Red-naped snake utilises various ground refugia, including constructed rock and sleeper retaining walls, under rocks, sheets of iron, timber piles, and other discarded human litter. Notably, an aggregation of six individuals was discovered in a crack of concrete beneath a linoleum floor covering in Coalfalls, Ipswich.
Red-naped Snake Gallery
