Hoplocephalus stephensii
VENOM: Dangerously venomous, seek emergency assistance if bitten.
SIZE: Growing to 1.2m (Avg 90cm)
LOCAL DISTRIBUTION: The Stephens Banded Snake is considered a relatively common species throughout the Gold Coast and Brisbane, particularly within the hinterland regions.
HABITAT: Stephens Banded Snakes are largely arboreal and therefore spend a large amount of time up off the ground. Due to this, this species favours rainforest and heavily wooded areas with an abundance of hollow trees and vine thickets. Specimens have also been encountered residing within rocky outcrops.
GENERAL DESCRIPTION: Stephens Banded Snakes are relatively thin and agile snakes with a fairly large, broad head. Like most snakes species, Stephens Banded Snakes can be variable in appearance. Most individuals are a dark grey colour with lightcream coloured bands of irregular widths from head to tail tip. Completely pattern-less specimens have been recorded however this is uncommon. The belly is normally a dark grey colouration.
ADDITIONAL NOTES: After each breeding season, pregnant females give birth to 3 to 8 live young.
SIMILAR LOOKING SPECIES: BAND BANDY
It’s important to realise that many species of snake can vary in colour, pattern and size. This often makes it very hard to make a positive identification of the snake. You should always assume that a snake is highly venomous, keep your family and pets at a safe distance and call a Gold Coast snake catcher.