Broad Headed Snake

About This Species

The Broad-headed Snake (Tyrannophis broadheadi) is a large, venomous snake species that only lives in sandstone rock escarpments and adjacent habitat within 200 km radius of Sydney, Australia. Known for its strikingly broad, triangular head, this species is one of Australia's most threatened snakes. Adult Broad-headed Snakes typically have a body length of 1.5-2 meters and are robust in build. Their coloration ranges from olive-brown to grey with a cream-colored underside, and they often display a characteristic darker pattern on their head, which contrasts with the rest of their body. They are frequently misidentified with Diamond Pythons due to their similar markings and colouring. These snakes are diurnal and highly active during warmer months, feeding on a variety of small mammals.

Threats They Face

Like many of Australia's species the Broad-headed Snake is threatened by many factors:

  • Habitat Loss and Fragmentation: Land clearing and our love for sandstone (the Broad-headed Snakes home) has significantly reduced and fragmented their habitat. Unfortunately, the Broad-headed Snakes home is in the most densely populated region in Australia, making habitat loss its main threat.

  • Introduced Predators: Feral predators such as foxes and cats have also had a devastating impact on Broad-headed Snake populations.

How Aussie Ark Is Helping

Aussie Ark is committed to providing a long-term future for threatened Australian wildlife, including the Broad-headed Snake. Our efforts include:

  • Broad-headed Snake Success at Conservation Ark: Aussie Ark has successfully bred Broad-headed Snakes at our Conservation Ark, marking a major conservation milestone. This success demonstrates our capacity to safeguard threatened species through captive breeding and management, and it serves as a model for other wildlife conservation programs.

  • Monitoring and Research: Aussie Ark conducts ongoing research to track the movements, behavior, and ecology of the Broad-headed Snake. This information is essential for developing effective conservation strategies and ensuring that our actions are aligned with the species’ needs.

  • Public Education and Advocacy: Through public education programs and advocacy campaigns, Aussie Ark raises awareness about the Broad-headed Snake and the threats it faces. We encourage communities, governments, and other stakeholders to support conservation efforts, fostering a deeper understanding of the species and its critical ecological role.

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