Green Tree Snake

Dendrelaphis punctulata

Green Tree Snake, Dendrelaphis punctulata, note the pale blue flecks between the body scales.

Identification:

The Green Tree Snake is usually green but may also be black, blue or yellow.  Pale blue flecks can often be seen between the body scales.  South-eastern Queensland specimens are typically green with bright yellow throats.  This species grows to 2m.  Midbody scale rows 13 (rarely 15); ventrals 180–230, with distinctive ridge near each outer edge; anal divided; subcaudals divided 100–150.  Individuals are susceptible to larvae of parasitic tapeworms which can often be seen as conspicuous lumps beneath the skin.

Distribution:

Found in coastal and sub-coastal northern and eastern Australia. 

Habitat:

A common species that lives in open forests, rainforests, rural lands and suburban gardens.

Habits:

This snake is active by day and is, as the name suggests, arboreal.

Danger:

Non-venomous.

Food:

Feeds on frogs, fish and small reptiles.

Breeding:

3-16 eggs are laid.  The hatchling snakes are around 24 cm from the tip of the snout to the base of the tail (snout-vent length).

Similar species:

None.

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