SMALL-EYED SNAKE

Rhinoplocephalus nigrescens

The Small-eyed Snake is found across various regions of Australia, including New South Wales, Queensland, Victoria, and South Australia. It typically inhabits a range of habitats, including woodlands, grasslands, coastal heathlands, and rocky outcrops.

 

Small-eyed Snakes are relatively small, with adults typically measuring between 40 and 70 cm.in length. They have a slender body with smooth scales and a distinct narrow head. The name “Small-eyed Snake” refers to their relatively small eyes compared to other snakes.

 

The coloration of Small-eyed Snakes can vary, but they typically have a dark brown or blackish colour on the upper body, often with lighter bands or spots. The belly is usually pale or cream-colored.

 

Small-eyed Snakes are primarily nocturnal and are generally considered to have a docile temperament. They are secretive and tend to hide under rocks, logs, or in leaf litter during the day. When threatened, they may flatten their body and display defensive behavior, such as hissing or striking.

 

Small-eyed Snakes are carnivorous and feed on a variety of prey, including small reptiles (such as skinks and geckos), frogs, and occasionally small mammals. They are skilled predators and use their venom to immobilize and subdue their prey.

 

Bites from Small-eyed Snakes should be treated as potentially dangerous, and immediate medical attention is recommended. The venom contains a long-acting myotoxin that continues to attack muscle tissue (including heart muscle) for days after envenomation.

 

Small-eyed Snakes are oviparous, meaning they lay eggs. The females lay a clutch of around 3 to 9 eggs, which are deposited in protected areas such as under rocks or logs. The eggs take several months to hatch, and the female does not provide parental care once the eggs are laid.

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