Critter of the Month Rough green snake Opheodrys aestivus Spring has definitely sprung! While the vibrant hues of the season emerge in full bloom, you may discover this colorful, yet cryptic serpent amid the vines and shrubs patiently waiting for a special meal to happen by. The rough green snake is often referred to as a “vine snake,” but also mistakenly as a "grass snake." It can range from southern New Jersey to the Florida Keys and west to southeast Kansas and Texas (very widespread and abundant throughout the eastern two thirds of the state). This particular species has also been found as far south as Tampico, Mexico. This slender, emerald-backed reptile is primarily arboreal (tree-climbing) preferring leafy trees, vines, and shrubs that allow it the ability to move about readily in search of a special array of prey. The green coloration enables this serpent to blend in superbly with its surroundings and while appearing virtually invisible amidst the backdrop, it ambushes unsuspecting food items such as caterpillars, spiders, grasshoppers, crickets, and dragonflies. This non-venomous snake can reach lengths of 22-32 inches, and the record length has been documented at approximately 46 inches.

The arboreal rough green snake is well-camouflaged in its natural habitat. The rough green snake is an egg-bearing reptile and can produce anywhere from three to twelve relatively large eggs, which it buries in the leaf litter. The young serpents are greenish gray and measure from six to nine inches in length at hatching. The rough green reaches adult size after about one year and will not breed until its second spring. Enjoy the warmth of the season and the bouquet of splendor nature provides as it conceals, yet reveals wonderful creatures such as the rough green snake.

<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>> * For a fun research challenge, give us the biologist's word for "egg-laying." Or answer this one: Is there a smooth green snake? If so, where would we find it? (Email your answers to hiss@wildlifeonthemove.com, and those with correct answers will be recognized in this section next month.) Return soon for a new critter.