Rough Green Snake

Opheodrys aestivus

Alternate Name(s):

Grass Snake

 

Venom Status:

Non Venomous

 

Characteristics:

Adult at 2 ½ feet in length but may occasionally attain 3 ½ feet. Slender and leaf green except immediately before shedding when it may be duller, or after death when it is bluish. Yellow, white, or pale green belly Scales are keeled. Use range to differentiate from Florida rough green snake. This is an insectivorous species with caterpillars being a favored food item. Ovoviviparous. Hatchlings are duller than adults.

 

Unique Features:

Extreme slenderness and leaf green coloration will identify this snake. Use range to differentiate this subspecies from Florida rough green snake.

 

Habitat and Diet:

May be seen on the ground but more often in vines or trees and especially in edge habitats. Often occurs but is seldom actually seen in yards. Primarily feed on caterpillars being a favored food item.

 

Geographic Range:

FL, GA, SC, Al, NC, TN, KY, VA, WV, AR, IL, IN, LA, MD, MS, TX, KS, MO, NJ, OH, OK, PA