The specific epithet pallidiceps (“pale-headed”) refers to its body markings.

The upper body is brown, grey or black, often with a paler head.

[2] The species is viviparous, with an average litter size of four.

[2] The species occurs in the Kimberley region of Western Australia and the Top End of the Northern Territory.

[2] The type locality is Port Essington in the Northern Territory.