(Hoplocephalus stephensi)

Stephen's Banded Snakes and other members of the genus are amongst the most sought after of the Australian elapids. My captive specimens have proven to be quite calm and manageable, although free-handling is not recommended. They are good feeders that seem to prefer mice, but have also taken pink rats. These snakes are semi-arboreal by nature and will readily climb if branches are provided in their enclosure. This species has highly toxic venom which poses a serious threat to humans, though no fatalities have been recorded due to bites from this species.