Stephens's banded snake
  A species of Hoplocephalus   Scientific name : Hoplocephalus stephensii  Genus :   Hoplocephalus    
  Stephens's banded snake, A species of Hoplocephalus 
  Scientific name: Hoplocephalus stephensii 
  Genus:  Hoplocephalus 
  Content 
 Description General Info
  Photo By Bernard DUPONT , used under CC-BY-SA-2.0 /Cropped and compressed from original  Description
 Stephens's banded snake is a nocturnal snake species indigenous to Australia's east coast. Known for its venomous bite used predominantly in predation rather than defense, it employs a sit-and-wait hunting strategy, targeting small mammals and reptiles. A unique individual temperature calibration facilitates this creature's survival in viviparous reproduction, testament to its adaptability in fluctuating environments. 
   General Info
Lifespan
 12-20 years 
   Diet
 Stephens's banded snake is a carnivorous species predominantly consuming small lizards. This nocturnal hunter also preys on frogs, small mammals, and invertebrates, providing a varied and balanced diet. 
   Appearance
 Stephens's banded snake is a medium-sized snake seen with a slender body. Its skin is covered in scales radiating a dominant dark brown color, contrasted with irregularly scattered light yellow bands. Juvenile individuals exhibit brighter coloration. It lacks any appendages typical of mammals like horns, wings or tails. No significant physical differences between genders or subspecies have been observed in this species. 
   Behavior
 Stephens's banded snake is a primarily nocturnal animal, emerging from rocky crevices at twilight to forage for food. Typically solitary outside of mating season, it demonstrates territorial behavior, often hissing and raising its body to deter intruders. Its distinctive sideward strike is a unique defensive behavior highlighting its survival adaptations. 
   Population
 Decreasing 
 Scientific Classification
 Phylum 
  Chordates   Class 
  Reptiles   Order 
  Lizards and snakes   Family 
  Elapids   Genus 
  Hoplocephalus   Species 
  Stephens's banded snake