Snake Identification
Identifying Snakes: A Comprehensive Guide for NSW
Snake encounters can be alarming, especially if you're unsure what species you've come across. In New South Wales, accurate snake identification is crucial—not only for safety but also for responsible interaction with native wildlife. This guide is designed to help you recognise key physical features that distinguish different species, with detailed links to venomous and non-venomous snakes commonly found in the region.
Key Features for Snake Identification
When identifying a snake, several physical characteristics can offer reliable clues. While no single feature is foolproof, understanding these traits together increases your chances of making a safe and accurate ID.
Scale Patterns and Arrangement
Scales can vary in texture, shape, and arrangement. Some venomous species, like the Eastern Brown Snake, have smooth, glossy scales, while others like pythons tend to have duller and rougher scales. Belly scales—whether they span the full width or are broken—can also help distinguish between venomous and non-venomous types.
Body Shape and Size
A snake’s body shape can be telling. Elapid snakes (which include most venomous species in NSW) often have slender, streamlined bodies. In contrast, pythons and many harmless species are more robust and thickset. Juveniles of both types can be deceptive, so size alone isn’t a reliable indicator—context matters.
Head Shape and Features
Many venomous snakes have a more angular, pronounced head due to venom glands, but this is not always visible. Non-venomous snakes usually have a more tapered or rounded head. However, some snakes flatten their heads when threatened, making them appear more triangular—adding to the confusion. Pay attention to eye size, scale structure on the head, and the presence of heat-sensing pits (typically seen in pythons).
Colouration and Markings
Snake colouration can be extremely varied in NSW. Some snakes, like the Red-Bellied Black Snake, are easily identified by their vivid contrast, while others like the Eastern Brown may appear in several shades. Look for patterns such as bands, blotches, or speckling. Note that some species mimic the appearance of others as a defence mechanism.
Understanding Snake Behaviour
While behaviour should never be your main method of identification, certain traits can offer additional hints. Fast, erratic movement may suggest a defensive venomous snake, while slow and deliberate movement might indicate a non-venomous type. Some snakes raise the front third of their bodies or flatten their necks when threatened. Important: Never rely solely on behaviour—maintain your distance and avoid interaction.
Important Safety Precautions
If you spot a snake:
- Stay calm and back away slowly.
- Never attempt to catch, touch, or kill the snake.
- Keep pets and children away.
- Contact us immediately by visiting our Contact Us page or by calling us on 1300 762 539.
We offer 24/7 emergency snake removal and can provide guidance over the phone while you’re waiting.
Further Identification Resources
For more in-depth identification:
- Use our Venomous Snakes, Non-Venomous Snakes and Other Reptiles pages.
- Consider apps like SnakeSnap.
- Field guides like “A Guide to the Snakes of Australia” by Scott Eipper can also be helpful.