Rough Greensnake
Opheodrys aestivus
A long, slender snake that's named for its mildly keeled scales and vibrant green coloration. It has a narrow head and large eyes with round pupils. Its ventrum is pale y…
How to identify
A long, slender snake that's named for its mildly keeled scales and vibrant green coloration. It has a narrow head and large eyes with round pupils. Its ventrum is pale yellowish green, and it has yellow scales outlining its mouth. It can reach 45 inches in total length.
Range
Wide-ranging throughout the southeastern United States and northeastern Mexico. Northern borders of its range stretch from southern New Jersey to eastern Kansas. To the west, it can be found from eastern Kansas down to central Texas. Southern and eastern borders follow the Gulf and Atlantic coasts.
Habitat
This snake is highly arboreal and usually lives near permanent bodies of water. Damp meadows and forest edges are preferred habitats. It is often found in thick vegetation around ponds and lakes.
Variations
Some individuals are bright blue instead of green.
Similar species
Most similar to its northern cousin, the smooth greensnake (*Opheodrys vernalis*). The highly variable North American racer (*Coluber constrictor*) could resemble this species.
Name and etymology
Aestivus: Latin for of summer.
At a glance
Range
Wide-ranging throughout the southeastern United States and northeastern Mexico. Northern borders of its range stretch from so…
Habitat
This snake is highly arboreal and usually lives near permanent bodies of water. Damp meadows and forest edges are preferred h…
Guide
Reptiles and Amphibians of North America
Range map
Approximate range. © Mapbox © OpenStreetMap