Cacophis

Cacophis is a genus of venomous snakes, commonly known as crowned snakes, in the family Elapidae. The genus is endemic to Australia.

Description

All species of Cacophis have a distinct "crown" pattern on the head, which gives them their common names. They are venomous, but not dangerous to people.

Species

The following four species are recognized as being valid.

Cacophis churchilli – northern dwarf crowned snake – northeastern Queensland
Cacophis harriettae – white-crowned snake – eastern Queensland, northeastern New [South Wales]
Cacophis krefftii – dwarf crowned snake – southeastern Queensland, eastern New South Wales
Cacophis squamulosus – golden-crowned snake – eastern Queensland, eastern New South Wales, Australian Capital Territory

Nota bene: In the above list, a binomial authority in parentheses indicate that the species was originally described in a genus other than Cacophis.

Distribution and habitat

Species of Cacophis are distributed along eastern Australia. They inhabit a variety of forest types, from woodland to rainforest.

Behaviour

Cacophis species are generally nocturnal and feed on lizards and reptile eggs.