Opheodrys vernalis
Table of Contents
Scientific Classification
| Kingdom: Animalia |
| Phylum: Chordata |
| Class: Reptilia |
| Order: Squamata |
| Family: Colubridae |
| Genus: Opheodrys |
| Species: Opheodrys vernalis |
Conservation Status
Identifying Features
Smooth green snakes are slender, smooth-scaled, and can grow to around 14-26 inches in length. They are vibrantly light green colored, with a white-yellow belly. As young, they may be olive-green or brownish, but will show a distinct light green after their first skin shed.
Habitat & Range
Smooth green snakes can be found in moist fields and grassy areas throughout eastern Canada and the United States. During the winter, they hibernate in burrows or dug out underground areas in large groups. Due to their vibrant color, they rely on similar colored environments to blend and protect themselves from predators.
Behavior
Smooth green snakes are shy and will flee if threatened. Due to their docile nature, they seldom bite and may allow humans to approach closely.
During warm months, smooth green snakes are active in the day and night. They hunt for insects and spiders and will kill prey using a strike rather than constriction.
Life Cycle
Smooth green snakes mate in late spring or summer. Females lay eggs in burrows, mounds, or rotting logs and leave the nest once the eggs are laid. Eggs hatch after 4 to 23 days and the young hatchlings are completely independent from birth, reaching adult maturity at around 2 years of age.
Featured image by D.R.