kids encyclopedia robot

Little whip snake facts for kids

Kids Encyclopedia Facts
Quick facts for kids
Little whip snake
Little Whip Snake (Parasuta flagellum) (8654702624).jpg
Conservation status
Scientific classification
Genus:
Suta
Species:
flagellum
Synonyms
  • Hoploceaphalus flagellum
    F. McCoy, 1878
  • Denisonia flagellum
    Boulenger, 1896
  • Cryptophis flagellum
    — Worrell, 1961
  • Suta flagellum
    — McDowell, 1970
  • Unechis flagellum
    — Cogger, 1975
  • Rhinoplocephalus flagellum
    — Storr, 1984
  • Parasuta flagellum
    — Greer, 2006

The little whip snake (Suta flagellum) is a small, venomous snake found only in Australia. It is also known as the whip hooded snake. This snake belongs to a group of snakes called Elapidae, which includes many well-known venomous snakes.

What Does the Little Whip Snake Look Like?

The little whip snake can grow up to about 45 centimeters (18 inches) long, including its tail. A special feature of this snake is a black, hourglass-shaped mark on its head. This mark stretches from the back of its neck to between its eyes. The snake's body is usually orange or tan on top. Its belly is a lighter cream color.

How Does the Little Whip Snake Behave?

Little whip snakes are mostly nocturnal, meaning they are active at night. During the day, they like to hide. You can often find them resting safely under rocks or logs.

What Does the Little Whip Snake Eat?

The whip hooded snake is a predator. It hunts and eats smaller animals. Its favorite foods include lizards and frogs.

Where Does the Little Whip Snake Live?

In New South Wales, Australia, the little whip snake prefers certain places to live. Its natural habitats are usually temperate grasslands. It also likes grassy woodlands, which are areas with trees and lots of grass.

Is the Little Whip Snake Dangerous?

Yes, the little whip snake is venomous. This means it produces venom. However, its venom is generally considered harmless to humans. If a person were bitten, it would likely cause only very mild symptoms.

Reproduction and Life Cycle

The Suta flagellum is a viviparous snake. This means that instead of laying eggs, the mother snake gives birth to live young. A mother little whip snake usually has a small number of babies at one time, typically seven or fewer.

kids search engine
Little whip snake Facts for Kids. Kiddle Encyclopedia.