bandy-bandy (genus Vermicella)

bandy-bandy, (genus Vermicella), Australian snake of the cobra family Elapidae, strikingly ringed with black and white or yellowish bands. Adults are about 50–80 cm (20–31 inches) long and are venomous but inoffensive. Five species of Vermicella are recognized.

The bandy-bandy has a small head and eyes and a slender, cylindrical body. To frighten off enemies the bandy-bandy raises a few coils of its body vertically, presenting an unusual silhouette. It preys exclusively or nearly so on blindsnakes, and females lay eggs in clutches of 2 to 13.

Lion (panthera leo)
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Alternate titles: Notechis
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eastern tiger snake
eastern tiger snake
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Related Topics: elapid black tiger snake eastern tiger snake venomous snake
tiger snake, (genus Notechis), Australian member of the cobra family, Elapidae. The snake’s venom, which contains a blood-clotting agent as well as a nerve paralyzer, is potentially fatal to humans. Before striking, the tiger snake flattens its head and neck, cobra fashion.

Tiger snakes occur in moist areas and in dry, rocky habitats of southern Australia and adjacent islands. They are represented by a variety of distinct populations that probably correspond to two, or perhaps more, species. The eastern tiger snake (N. scutatus) is the most widely distributed form, occurring from Victoria and New South Wales to portions of South and Western Australia. The black tiger snake (N. ater) is mainly limited to arid and rocky regions in South Australia. Tiger snakes eat frogs, birds, and mammals, and all attain adult lengths of 1 to 1.5 metres (3 to 5 feet). They are live-bearers.

Lion (panthera leo)
BRITANNICA QUIZ
Deadliest Animals Quiz
Do you know which species of shark is most likely to attack a human? Or what animal has the strongest bite?
This article was most recently revised and updated by Amy Tikkanen.