How to Identify the Kofiau Green Tree Python (Identification Guide)
The Kofiau locality of the green tree python, from a small island off western New Guinea, is noted for its comparatively small adult size and fine, subtle blue flecking.
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Key identifying features
The Kofiau green tree python is a locality form of Morelia viridis from Kofiau Island, a small island off the Bird's Head Peninsula of West Papua. It shares the universal identification traits of the species: a laterally compressed body, strongly prehensile tail, and the characteristic branch-draped resting coil with the head centered in the coils.
Coloration & pattern
Adults typically show bright green dorsal coloration with fine, subtle blue flecking that tends to be less dense than in some other localities. The belly is pale cream to yellow. As in all green tree pythons, hatchlings emerge yellow or red and transition to green over the first one to two years, the species' hallmark developmental color change.
Head, eyes & scales
The head is triangular and clearly distinct from the neck, bearing heat-sensing pits along the labial scales. Eyes are large with vertical pupils. Scales are small and smooth, giving the skin its typical glossy finish.
Size & body shape
Kofiau individuals are frequently noted by keepers as reaching a somewhat smaller average adult size than mainland New Guinea localities, an effect sometimes seen in island populations, with adults commonly in the 3 to 5 foot range. The body remains laterally flattened with a strongly prehensile tail as in all green tree pythons.
Range & habitat where you'll see it
This locality form is restricted to Kofiau Island, a small island in the Raja Ampat archipelago off the western tip of New Guinea. It occupies lowland island forest, favoring shrubs and low tree branches.
How to tell it apart from look-alikes
A comparatively smaller average adult size combined with subtle, fine blue flecking is often cited as characteristic of the Kofiau locality, but individual variation and lack of confirmed provenance make certainty difficult without verified collection data. Green tree pythons overall are distinguished from the unrelated emerald tree boa by geography and head scale/heat-pit differences, and from carpet pythons by uniform green adult coloration.
Frequently asked questions
Are Kofiau green tree pythons smaller than other localities?
They are often reported by keepers to reach a somewhat smaller average adult size, consistent with patterns seen in some island populations.
Where is Kofiau Island?
It is a small island in the Raja Ampat archipelago off the Bird's Head Peninsula of West Papua, New Guinea.
What color are hatchlings?
Hatchlings are bright yellow or red and turn green with age.
Is this python venomous?
No, it is a non-venomous constrictor.