Green Tree Snake
Photo: C & D Frith
Australian Tropical
Reptiles & Frogs
Green Tree Snake (Dendrelaphis punctulata) - They are arboreal, thin, whip-like and very agile.
- They are by far the more abundant and widespread of the tree snakes.
- When provoked, the snake will make itself larger by inflating its neck and fore-body, stretching it so that the blue skin between the scales can be seen.
Markings: - The colour of the underparts varies from blackish to bright blue, green, yellow, grey or a shade of brown or tan.
Habitat: - These snakes are found in the northern tropics and eastern Australia.
- If handled, this snake can produce an unpleasant odour and will bite for a final attempt at defence. Yet, its teeth are tiny and the bite is harmless, as the Green Tree Snake has no fangs.
Diet: - The Green Tree Snake eats small reptiles and frogs (engulfing them head first) and even the occasional fish.
Size: - The average male grows to slightly over one metre in length, but has been recorded to reach two metres.
Green Tree Snakes of the Lamington National Park
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