Golden Crowned Snake

(Cacophis squamulosus) 

Non Venomous

Other common names: Crowned Snake.

Possible Danger. All crowned snakes are reluctant biters. They will rear up in bluff display & may ‘mock strike’ with mouth closed. The Golden Crowned is the largest Crowned snake & will bite if highly provoked. As with any snake bite apply correct first aid and seek medical attention.

General description: Grayish-brown to dark brown with salmon to orange belly with mid line of black spots. ‘Crown’ of parallel creamy-yellow or paler yellow-brown single stripe starting at snout & sweeping back either side of face and along neck, generally across eyes. Crown does not form band across nape of neck. May be incorrectly identified as a small Red Bellied Black Snake. Midbody scales at 15 rows.

Average Length: 50cm but specimens to 90cm are known.

Habitat in SE Qld: Rainforest, and sheltered, moist areas within open forest eg; creek lines amongst litter, rocks, logs etc. Wherever good, lush ground cover prevails.

General habits: Nocturnal (Active by night)

Diet: Lizards such as skinks and their eggs. Also small frogs.

Local distribution: Generally restricted to moister suburbs or homes near well vegetated riparian margins.

Around the home: Under compost, logs and stones in well-vegetated gardens Compost heaps, moist garden areas with abundant leaf-litter, and around rockeries provide ideal habitat.

Visit our Snake safety around the home pages along with our Snakes around the garden pages provide further valuable information when considering this species and its potential presence around your property.