Skip to main content
Global Animal Guide

Australia snakes: identification guide

Common species near homes and bush — observe only from a safe distance. Never handle snakes.

Treat unknown snakes as dangerous. A glossy black snake with a red belly is likely a red-bellied black; variable tan racers in farmland are often eastern browns; large patterned constrictors in roofs may be carpet pythons (non-venomous). If bitten, use pressure immobilisation and call 000.

By , Founder Last reviewed Cite this page How we research & review

Safety first

Australia has some of the world’s most venomous snakes. This page is for distant visual ID only — not for handling. Call a licensed snake catcher for snakes inside homes.

Common species at a glance

SpeciesKey marksHabitatSafety
Eastern Brown Snake Slender; variable tan to dark brown; often plain; fast-moving Farmland, grasslands, suburban edges (east/south) Highly venomous — do not approach
Red-bellied Black Snake Glossy black upper body; bright red or pink belly Near water, parks, bushland (east) Venomous; usually retreats if given space
Tiger Snake Often banded yellow/olive on dark body; stout Wetlands, coasts, islands (south) Highly venomous
Coastal Carpet Python Large non-venomous constrictor; intricate carpet-like pattern Forests, suburbs, roof spaces (east/north) Non-venomous; can bite if handled
Lowland Copperhead Coppery to dark brown; relatively thick body Cooler SE Australia, near cover and water Venomous
Death Adder Short, stout, triangular head; banded body; ambush posture Leaf litter in forests and scrub Highly venomous; very still when waiting

How to identify Australian snakes safely

  1. 1

    Keep well back. Stay at least several metres away. Most bites happen when people try to catch or kill snakes.

  2. 2

    Note overall colour and pattern. Eastern browns are variable brown; red-bellied blacks are glossy black with a red belly; tiger snakes show bands in many individuals.

  3. 3

    Do not rely on head shape alone. Australian elapids do not follow the “triangular head = venomous” rule used elsewhere. Treat unknown snakes as potentially dangerous.

  4. 4

    Consider habitat and state. Coastal suburbs, farms, and bush edges all host different common species. Local wildlife apps help narrow options.

  5. 5

    If bitten, call emergency services. Apply a pressure immobilisation bandage, keep still, and dial 000. Do not wash the bite site if venom detection may be used.

Frequently asked questions

What should I do if I see a snake in my Australian garden?

Keep children and pets inside, watch from a distance, and call a licensed snake catcher if it is in a high-traffic area. Most snakes move on if left alone.

Are all Australian snakes venomous?

No. Pythons and many small species are non-venomous. However, several common suburban snakes are highly venomous — so never handle any snake you cannot identify with certainty.

How do I tell a red-bellied black from an eastern brown?

Red-bellied blacks are glossy black above with a red belly. Eastern browns are usually brown above (rarely black) and lack that bright red underside. Still keep distance from both.

What first aid is used for Australian snakebite?

Pressure immobilisation: bandage firmly over the bite and up the limb, splint, keep still, and call 000. Do not cut, suck, or apply a tourniquet.

Sources & references

Identification marks and calls are compiled from established field guides and ornithological references for Australia.