Scientist appeals for public help to save secretive snake

A researcher at the Menzies School of Health says a newly discovered Northern Territory snake is in danger of being wiped out by the cane toad.

Professor Bart Currie says the secretive snake is a frog eater and, like many other Territory reptiles, is suffering because of the cane toad invasion.

He says the snake is common in people's backyards which means the public could help.

"Clearly, it's incredibly susceptible, these snakes are, to the toxins of the cane toad, so if we can keep the toads out of the urban areas as much as possible and they don't become a normal thing around everybody's backyards and pools, then hopefully this lovely little snake will evolve and survive."