[1][3] It is found in rainforest edges and other tropical woodland areas as well as in rocky habitat and environments on offshore islands.

[3] The etymology of the species' name presumable derives from the latin word torquatus meaning "collared".

[3] This species has a characteristic dark nuchal collar (band across the nape) with a pale edge.

[3] Male specimens generally have a greater number of ventral and subcaudal scales, as well as longer tails.

It can be distinguished from D. torquata as the latter has a pale upper edge of the ‘teardrop’ marking extending across the face and adjoining with the anterior band of the nape collar.

[3] Collared whipsnakes are found along the coast and range of eastern Queensland, extending from Batavia Downs in the north to Mount Larcom in the south.