Green Bush Snake

The Green Bush Snake belongs to the genus Philothamnus, a group of slender, fast-moving arboreal colubrids widespread across sub-Saharan Africa. It is one of the most commonly encountered snakes in suburban gardens due to its bright coloration and tolerance of human-altered environments.

This species is harmless to humans, being non-venomous and generally unwilling to bite even when handled. It is a beneficial predator of small vertebrates and invertebrates around homes and gardens.

• Slim, elongated body with smooth (not keeled) scales giving a glossy sheen
• Bright to olive green dorsal coloration, sometimes with a bluish tinge between scales
• Pale yellow or white underside
• Large eyes with round pupils
• Narrow head barely distinct from the neck

Differentiated from venomous green mambas by its much smaller size, slimmer build, and lack of a coffin-shaped head.

Found in forest edges, savanna woodland, gardens, hedgerows, and riverine vegetation across much of sub-Saharan Africa, from West Africa through Central Africa into parts of East and southern Africa. Highly arboreal, often seen moving through shrubs and low trees.

Diurnal and highly alert, moving quickly through vegetation and diving into cover when disturbed. When cornered it may flatten its neck slightly but rarely bites.

Feeds mainly on frogs, geckos, and other small lizards, actively foraging through foliage. Reproduction is oviparous, with clutches of roughly 4-10 eggs laid in moist, sheltered sites.