Opheodrys vernalis
Smooth Greensnake
Photo taken by Maureen Rice.
More images from google
Identification
True to its name, the Smooth Greensnake has smooth scales and is solid green. When it is dead, it turns blue. They can grow to be 2 feet long (the longest documented in Vermont is 19 inches).
Range/Habitat
Smooth Greensnakes are found in beaver meadows, overgrown fields, pastures, and sedge meadows.
Status
This species has a state natural heritage rank of S3 (uncommon); however, it is becoming difficult to find in Vermont. The Smooth Greensnake has been designated a Species of Greatest Conservation Need (medium priority) in Vermont’s Wildlife Action Plan. Please report all sightings of this species in Vermont. Take photos if possible. Even historic sighting information is useful. Any natural history observations (feeding, migrations, road crossing areas, early or late season appearance, abnormalities, etc.) are appreciated.
This snake was formerly classifed in the genus Liochlorophis.
More Info
- Opheodrys vernalis at the Animal Diversity website
- Opheodrys vernalis at the CARCNET website
- Liochlorophis vernalis in the Vermont Agency of Natural Resources’ Wildlife Action Plan (PDF)
- Opheodrys vernalis at the Snakes of Massachusetts website
Species summary written by Kaile Burgess.