Brachyurophis incinctus

Brachyurophis incinctus is a species of snake from the family Elapidae, commonly named the unbanded shovel-nosed snake, and is a species endemic to Australia. Its common name reflects its shovel nose specialisation, burrowing behaviour and the fact that it is not banded on its body.

Description
The unbanded shovel-nosed snake is an oviparous, mildly venomous, and small (< 400mm) burrowing snake, which is not banded on its body.

Taxonomy
Brachyurophis incinctus is one of eight currently recognised species within the genus Brachyurophis. It was first described by Glen Milton Storr in 1968 as Vermicella semifasciata subsp. incincta.

Distribution & habitat
Brachyurophis incinctus is found in central Australia (in the Northern Territory) and in western Queensland, in grasslands, shrublands and deserts.

Conservation status
The conservation status of B. incinctus is assessed by the Queensland Government as being of "Least Concern" and is similarly assessed by the IUCN, with the  comment that it is  "unlikely that any major threat is impacting this species".