Size: Length - 1.5-2.0m (individuals
of 2.5m have also been recorded)
Identification: Uniform glossy
purplish black with the tip of the snout usually over spread with pale
brown. Belly is cream to pink with lateral edges of belly pink to rich
red in colour. Black iris and 17 rows in midbody scales.
Call/Song:
Along east coast and ranges from south-eastern Cape York Penisula (Qld)
to south-eastern South Australia.
Habitat:
Swamps, riverbanks or edges of wet sclerophyll forests and rainforests.
Feeding: Bulk
of diet comprised of frogs though mammals, reptiles, fish and eels are
also taken.
Breeding/Nesting: Mating
occurs in spring with combat between rival males occuring in this period.
During combat, the snakes bodies are intertwined with heads raised. Apparently,
each is attempting to place its head higher than that of it opponent.
From January to March, between 5 and 40
young are born in membranous sacs from which they emerge shortly after
birth.
Movement: This snake is active
during the day and quick to flee when disturbed. When provoked, however,
the Red-bellied Black Snake will hiss loudly with its head and forebody
raised. Considered dangerously venomous.
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Status:
Distribution:
Abundance:
Wilson, S.K. & Knowles, D.G.
(1988)
A Photographic Reference to the Terrestrial
Reptiles of Australia, Collins Publishers, Australia.