snake identification

 Common Tree Snake 

Fast-moving and often mistaken for more dangerous species due to its quick, darting movements, the Common Tree Snake is completely harmless. It's slender, often olive-green to bluish-grey, and spends much of its time in shrubs, trees, and garden foliage hunting frogs and small lizards. 

Tiger Snake

 Tiger Snakes are less frequently seen in Campbelltown but do turn up near wetlands and river systems. They typically have dark banding (though colouring can vary widely) and are considered highly venomous. Tiger Snakes can be defensive if disturbed, flattening their body and hissing loudly as a warning before striking.

Red Bellied Black Snake

 Easily identified by its glossy black back and vivid red-pink underbelly, the Red-bellied Black Snake is common near creeks, dams, and wetter parts of the Macarthur region. It's generally shy and will retreat if given the chance, but will defend itself if cornered or provoked. Growing up to 1.5–2 metres, it plays an important role in controlling rodent and frog populations. 

 Eastern Brown Snake( juvenile )

Juvenile Eastern Brown Snakes often have distinct dark bands, which fade as they mature into adults. Fast-moving and alert, they may raise their head and body in an S-shape if threatened. Venom is highly toxic — keep well back and call a licensed snake catcher immediately. 

Eastern Brown Snake( adult)

 The adult Eastern Brown Snake typically has a more uniform colouring than juveniles,  ranging from pale tan to grey-brown or olive, without the distinct dark banding seen in younger snakes. It has a slender body and can grow up to 2 metres long. This snake is fast-moving and alert — if it feels threatened, it may raise its head and body off the ground in an S-shape before striking. Its venom is highly toxic, so if you spot one, keep well back and call a licensed snake catcher.

Death Adder

  The Death Adder has a short, stocky body with a broad, triangular head — very different from other Australian snakes. Unlike most snakes, it often stays still instead of fleeing, relying on camouflage (grey, reddish-brown, or banded) to hide in leaf litter. It's an ambush hunter that lures prey with its tail tip before striking fast. Because it may not move away when approached, always watch your step in bushy areas — never attempt to handle it. 

Diamond Python

 The Diamond Python is a large, non-venomous snake with striking black and cream/yellow patterned scales. It's often found in roof cavities, sheds, and gardens, where it hunts rodents and birds. Completely harmless to humans, it can grow over 3 metres — its size and habit of entering homes often cause alarm, but it's actually one of the more beneficial snakes to have around, helping naturally control pests. 

  All Photos Courtesy to  Shane Walsh