Dugite
Pseudonaja affinis
Our shy but dangerous locals. The dugite, is a fast moving diurnal species that is found only in the south west of Australia. They vary greatly in colour from very dark, almost black to a pale tan, almost yellowish colour.
The dugite is a shy species, which is why we don’t see them as often as the tiger snakes (although there have been a few juveniles relocated from our Administration offices over the years!). They prefer the Park’s woodlands where they hunt for rodents, small mammals and reptiles to eat.
Walkers and cyclists should also take care: these snakes can be a bit defensive, particularly as they ‘wake up’ in early spring, so if you come across one, back away slowly and go back the way you came. Like all of our reptiles, if you leave them alone, they will generally leave you alone too.
If you are out in the bushier areas of the Park, be alert to what is going on around you, as small birds will often sound the alarm if a predator is in their midst!
FAUNA PROFILE
| Family | Elapidae |
| Scientific name | Pseudonaja affinis |
| Noongar name | |
| Common name | dugite |
| Conservation status | Least Concern |
| Habitat | woodlands, heathlands |
Banner image courtesy of the West Australian Reptile Park.