Lichtenstein's Green Racer
Philodryas olfersii
A slender green-and-gray South American snake, common in gardens and forest edges, known for its speed and defensive bite when cornered.
- Venomous?
- Mildly venomous
- Adult length
- 0.8-1.3 m (2.6-4.3 ft)
- Range
- South America, especially Brazil and Argentina
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Overview
Lichtenstein's Green Racer is a widespread and adaptable colubrid found across much of South America, including Brazil, Argentina, Paraguay, and Uruguay. It thrives in a variety of habitats, from forest to agricultural and suburban areas.
As a member of the mildly venomous genus Philodryas, its bite has occasionally caused local swelling in humans, though serious medical outcomes are rare; it is not classified among medically significant venomous snakes.
How to identify it
- Greenish to olive-brown dorsal coloration, sometimes with faint darker striping
- Pale yellowish or cream belly
- Slender build with a long tail
- Round pupils and a narrow head barely distinct from the neck
- Distinguished from the plain Green Racer by slightly duller, more olive tones and geographic range further south
Habitat & range
Highly adaptable, occurring in forest, savanna, scrubland, agricultural land, and even urban gardens across much of temperate and subtropical South America.
Behavior, diet & reproduction
Diurnal and fast-moving, hunting frogs, lizards, small mammals, and birds. Delivers mild venom via rear fangs to subdue prey. Known to be feisty when cornered, often biting readily in defense. Egg-laying species.
Frequently asked questions
Is Lichtenstein's Green Racer dangerous?
It is mildly venomous and can occasionally cause local swelling from a bite, but it is not considered medically significant.
Where is it commonly found?
Across much of South America, including forests, farmland, and even gardens in Brazil and Argentina.
What does it eat?
Frogs, lizards, small mammals, and birds.
Is it aggressive?
It can be defensive and quick to bite if cornered, though it typically flees when possible.
Lichtenstein's Green Racer guides
In-depth guides for identifying and understanding Lichtenstein's Green Racer.
