Parrot Snake
Leptophis ahaetulla
A slender, bright green, diurnal tree snake with large eyes, common throughout Neotropical forests.
- Venomous?
- Mildly venomous
- Adult length
- 1.0-2.0 m (3.3-6.6 ft)
- Range
- Mexico, Central America, and South America
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Overview
The parrot snake is a slender, arboreal colubrid found across a broad range from Mexico through Central and South America. Its vivid green coloration provides effective camouflage among leaves and vines.
It is a fast, alert species that relies on speed and agility to escape predators, and it possesses mild rear-fanged venom used mainly to subdue small prey.
How to identify it
- Bright green upper body, sometimes with a bluish or yellowish tinge
- Pale yellow or cream underside
- Large eyes with round pupils and a pointed snout
- Slender, laterally compressed body suited to climbing
- Smooth scales
Habitat & range
Found in tropical and subtropical forests, forest edges, and shrubby vegetation from Mexico through Central America and much of South America. Highly arboreal, occurring from lowlands to moderate elevations.
Behavior, diet & reproduction
Diurnal, active and fast-moving through vegetation. Feeds on lizards, frogs, and small birds. Rear-fanged with mild venom for subduing prey. Lays eggs. Quick to flee rather than confront threats.
Frequently asked questions
Is the parrot snake dangerous?
No, it is only mildly venomous and not considered dangerous to humans.
Why is it green?
Its bright green color provides camouflage in the leafy vegetation it inhabits.
What does it eat?
Mainly lizards, frogs, and small birds.
Where is it found?
Forests and shrublands from Mexico through Central and South America.
Parrot Snake guides
In-depth guides for identifying and understanding Parrot Snake.
