Eastern small-eyed snake

Cryptophis nigrescens

Shiny black above with a pink or cream belly and small eyes.

Habitat and distribution

Forest and gardens along the east coast, active on warm nights.

Safety

Often mistaken for a red-bellied black. Bites need medical attention.

Quick facts

Venom: Venomous. Bites can cause muscle damage and need hospital assessment. At least one death has been recorded.
Size: Usually 40 to 60 cm, occasionally up to 1 m.
Active: At night. Often found under logs, rocks and debris during the day.
Diet: Mainly skinks, plus frogs and other small reptiles.

Often confused with

Red-bellied black snake (Pseudechis porphyriacus)

Common questions

Is the eastern small-eyed snake venomous?

Yes. It is small and shy but its venom can damage muscle. Snakes are venomous rather than poisonous. The risk comes from a bite, so any suspected bite should be treated as an emergency and you should call 000.

Where is the eastern small-eyed snake found?

Along the east coast and ranges from north Queensland to eastern Victoria, usually in moist forest and woodland.

Where it is found

Approximate range based on AROD, adapted to our dot grid. Approximate historical reference range; not a habitat or absence assessment. Listed for 9,847 towns and suburbs. Ranges are approximate and do not confirm occurrence at a particular address.

Call 1800 4 SNAKE (1800 476 253)

If someone has been bitten, call 000. Never approach or handle a snake to identify it.