Seventeen snakes have sparked a world-first conservation comeback in Australia. Conservationists confirm more than half of the reintroduced broad-headed snakes are alive and thriving in the wild.

The result is being called a world-first for snake reintroduction. Returning captive-bred snakes to the wild is notoriously difficult, and survival rates are usually low.

The broad-headed snake is found in sandstone habitats near Sydney. It has suffered from habitat loss and illegal collection for the pet trade.

Researchers tracked the released snakes to confirm they are feeding, sheltering and surviving through seasons. The success offers a blueprint for other reptile recovery efforts.

Conservationists say the milestone proves careful reintroduction can work even for secretive species. More releases are planned to rebuild wild numbers.

The snakes were bred in captivity and released into protected sandstone country. Rangers fitted some with tiny trackers. Early data shows the snakes are hunting successfully. The team hopes to expand the programme to more sites next year.