Hoopsnakes are dangerous snakes native to
Australia. Commonly found in bushland and the outback, Hoopsnakes are NOT lethal, but are still dangerous when confronted. Although usually quite timid animals, Hoopsnakes have been known to chase down and attack animals and humans during their breeding period. If bitten by the Hoopsnake, headaches, vomiting, and temporary blindness and paralysis
may occur.
What makes the Hoopsnake different from other snakes in the world is their ability to to
roll, in a way much
like a wheel or hula-hoop (hence the name, Hoopsnake). They bite onto their tail, which is very
thick and callused, and
use their strengthened spines to roll into a circular shape and roll around. Using this method, the Hoopsnake can reach up to 60km/h.
Although lots is known about the Hoopsnakes, they are not not very well known as they should be. They were never featured on any of
Steve Irwin's television programs or his movies, which is quite disappointing. The Hoopsnake is a beautiful creature which deserves to be known throughout the world.
There is no definite breeding season with Hoopsnakes, as they breed year round. A
female Hoopsnake will find a new mate every year. Couples only breed once a year, with the
female laying around 10 to 15
eggs in a
batch. On average, only 8 survive, due to the Hoopsnake being the main food source of eagles and hawks.
Hoopsnakes feed on small marsupials such as biblies, mice, rats and quolls. Baby hoopsnakes often eat crickets and other small insects. Hoopsnakes live around 8 years, and in their life time have been known to grow up to 1.5 metres
long. They range from a light, olive
green to a darker black in colour, depending on the age. This is why it is extremely difficult to identify the Hoopsnake, because the colours are so different.
Bazza: Mate! Saw a Hoopsnake the other day, almost hit it in me Holden - bloody beautiful creature!
Davo: Bloody oath!
