How to Identify Kirtland's Tree Snake (Identification Guide)
A slender West African arboreal snake identified by its greenish to olive coloring, subtle patterning, and large eyes typical of tree-dwelling colubrids.
Read the full Kirtland's Tree Snake encyclopedia entry →Key identifying features
Kirtland's Tree Snake (Dipsadoboa unicolor group) is a slender, arboreal colubrid found in the forests of West and Central Africa. It is identified by its smooth, elongated body, relatively uniform coloration, and large eyes suited to life among branches and foliage. Unlike some related species, its pattern is often subdued rather than boldly marked.
Coloration & pattern
The dorsal coloration is typically olive-green, grayish-green, or brownish, often appearing fairly uniform along the length of the body, giving rise to the species name reflecting its largely unpatterned or lightly patterned appearance. Some individuals show faint darker flecking or a subtle darker vertebral line. The underside is generally paler, ranging from cream to light green or yellowish, contrasting mildly with the dorsal color.
Head, eyes & scales
The head is moderately distinct from the neck, with a rounded snout and large, dark eyes that stand out against the lighter surrounding scales. Pupils are typically rounded to slightly elliptical, and the eyes are proportionally large, aiding vision in the dim light of the forest canopy and during dusk activity. Scales are smooth and glossy, contributing to the snake's sleek, streamlined form.
Size & body shape
Kirtland's Tree Snake is a small to moderately sized species, generally reaching 50 to 80 centimeters in total length. The body is slender and only mildly laterally compressed compared to some other arboreal colubrids, with a long, tapering tail that aids balance while moving through vegetation.
Range & habitat where you'll see it
This species is found in the rainforests and moist woodlands of West and Central Africa, where it lives primarily in trees, shrubs, and dense undergrowth. It is often encountered near forest streams, in secondary growth, and along forest edges, being active mainly at dusk and during the night.
How to tell it apart from look-alikes
Its relatively plain, uniform greenish or olive coloring without strong banding or speckling helps separate it from more boldly patterned relatives such as the Marbled or Powdered Tree Snakes. Its smaller overall size and less pronounced lateral compression also distinguish it from larger arboreal species like Blanding's Tree Snake. Careful attention to head shape and eye size remains useful for confirming identification against similar small greenish forest snakes.
Frequently asked questions
What color is Kirtland's Tree Snake?
It is usually olive-green, grayish-green, or brownish, with a fairly uniform appearance and only faint patterning in most individuals.
How big does it get?
It is a small to moderately sized snake, typically reaching 50 to 80 centimeters in length.
How is it different from other African tree snakes?
Its plain, largely unpatterned coloring sets it apart from more boldly marbled or banded relatives like the Marbled Tree Snake.
Where does it typically live?
It inhabits rainforest and moist woodland canopy and undergrowth in West and Central Africa, often near streams and forest edges.
Is it active during the day?
It is mainly active at dusk and night, spending daylight hours concealed in foliage or vegetation.