Black Whip Snake, Whip Snake
Potentially DangerousLarger specimens can be potentially dangerous especially if children involved. Bite may cause localised pain & severe symptoms. Apply correct first aid and seek medical attention.
Slender body with long finely tapering tail. Large prominent eye. Colour rich dark brown through reddish brown to dark grey, often reddish-brown flush towards tail. Body has pattern of black and white flecks or spots caused by dark and light markings on individual scales. Top of head usually has dark brown spots & flecks, and narrow, pale edge around eye. Belly greenish-grey. Scales smooth. Midbody scales at 15 rows.
Average 1.2 metres
Mainly dry open areas, open forest & grassland, coastal heath.
Swift-moving, alert, diurnal snake. Good vision, active hunter.
Lizards such as skinks and also frogs.
Recent records include areas to the north of Brisbane such as Bribie Island and Beachmere.
Infrequently encountered with very few recorded by snake handlers in the region. Would be typically associated with ground refugia such as timber piles, sheet iron, rock walls and heavy vegetation.