In General

The Red Belly Black Snake is one of Australia's more well known elapids. While this snake is dangeroulsy venomous, it is a shy snake that will do everything possible to avoid human contact.

This snake has suffered greatly with the introduction of the Cane Toad as a large part of its diet is frogs. With fewer frogs about the snake tries to eat the toad, with fatal consequences.

Did you know that the Red Belly Black Snake actively chase the Common Brown Snake out of their territory and that their venom is fatal to the Brown.

Diet

Frogs, small mammals and other reptiles.

Habitat

Forest, woodland and bushland close to a water source.

Breeding

Mating occurs in early spring. The female gives birth to live young in a transparent sac, which the young break through shortly after birth. A female may give birth to between 5 and 40 young.

Conservation status

Vulnerable