Common Tree Snake

A study of D. punctulatus in Queensland showed females having an average snout–vent length of 101 centimetres (40 in) with males slightly shorter at 93 centimetres (37 in). Studies show that the snake may attain a total length in females of 200 centimetres (79 in) in females, while other sources state an overall maximum of 164 centimetres (65 in), which includes a tail 44 cm (17 in) long. It has 24–26 maxillary teeth. The dorsal scales are arranged in 13 rows at midbody. The ventrals number 191–220. The anal plate is divided. The subcaudals, which are also divided, number 120–144.

D. punctulatus is common in Australia's northern tropics and eastern Australia. It is also found from the Kimberley region (Western Australia) to Cape York and Torres Strait (Queensland), extending down the east coast into New South Wales, and north into Papua New Guinea. The common tree snake lives in a wide variety of habitats, including: bushland; well vegetated banks of rivers, creeks and streams; rainforest edges; eucalypt forests; heathland and areas with trees, long grass, and lush vegetation – especially near water. It can be found at altitudes from sea level to 500 m (1,600 ft). The peak activity period for D. punctulatus, as determined from callouts by members of the public, in the Darwin region is during the northern dry season (May–July).

When D. punctulatus is near water it often looks for long grass, blending in to hide while watching for its prey to come to nearby rocks or banks to bask or play. It will also enter house gardens that have fountains or ponds surrounded by long grass or shrubs. It is active during the day, and rests at night in hollow trees, logs, foliage, or rock crevices. It is often found resting in trees; hence the name "tree snake".

Feeding. Frogs, water skinks, and small reptiles and their eggs form a large part of the common tree snake's diet, but it will also eat small fish, mammals, geckos, and turtle hatchlings.