Yellow-faced Whipsnake

The yellow-faced whip snake (Demansia psammophis) is a species of venomous snake in the family Elapidae, a family containing many dangerous snakes. D. psammophis is endemic to Australia, found throughout the continent in a variety of habitats from coastal fringes to interior arid scrubland.

Taxonomy

The yellow-faced whip snake is part of the genus Demansia, a group of venomous snakes in the family Elapidae. This genus is composed of whip snakes, characterized by their large eyes and whip-like tail. The genus Demansia is commonly found in the Southern hemisphere around Australia and equatorial countries such as Papua New Guinea. 15 species are assigned to the genus Demansia.

Description

D. psammophis is a thin snake with a narrow head. It grows up to a total length (tail included) of 1 m (39 in), averaging around 80 cm (31 in), females being slightly smaller than males. Characterized by its narrow yellowish head, pale ring around the eyes, and a dark marking curving along the upper lip, D. psammophis becomes distinguishable from other Demansia snakes. Juveniles can be distinguished as a white-edged dark line is seen across the snout. The large prominent eyes surrounded by a pale ring, account for its ability to be a successful diurnal species, having the largest eyes of any Australian snake assisting in prey capture. The colour of the yellow-faced whip snake varies, ranging from olive green, to grey and brown; however, a common characteristic in colour is a "red flush along the anterior third of its back".

To accurately identify this species, there must be a clear view of the head, and the dorsal scales at the snake's mid-body must be counted. D. psammophis has 15 mid-body dorsal scale rows and 165–230 ventrals, with the anal and subcaudals divided. D. psammophis is commonly confused with the eastern brown snake (Pseudonaja textilis), due to their similar appearance.

Distribution and habitat

D. psammophis is distributed throughout the Australian continent, with presence in every state except Tasmania. Although the distribution of D. psammophis is wide, it is endemic to Australia.

Found in a variety of habitats across Australia, D. psammophis ranges from coastal forests to arid scrublands and grasslands in Australia's interior.

It is not uncommon to find more than one D. psammophis as they are community dwellers. Habitats in rock crevices and under logs are common community habitats with communities often aggregating in winter months.

Behaviour

D. psammophis is a diurnal reptile, fast-moving with a nervous disposition, always alert and fleeing quickly when disturbed. The yellow-faced whip snake is subject to brumation, or slowing down its movements, in the winter months, usually only moving to seek sun and water.

Reproduction