Chinese green snake
Species of snake
From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia
The Chinese green snake (Ptyas major) is a species of snake in the family Colubridae.[1][2]
| Greater green snake | |
|---|---|
| |
Scientific classification  | |
| Kingdom: | Animalia |
| Phylum: | Chordata |
| Class: | Reptilia |
| Order: | Squamata |
| Suborder: | Serpentes |
| Family: | Colubridae |
| Genus: | Ptyas |
| Species: | P. major |
| Binomial name | |
| Ptyas major (Günther, 1858) | |
| Synonyms[2] | |
Description
The Chinese green snake is a slender, medium-sized snake, averaging 75–90 cm (2½-3 feet) in total length, but occasionally growing to 120 cm (4 feet). Bright green above; ventral scales greenish-yellow. Dorsal scales smooth except that males have several mid-dorsal scale rows keeled. Some specimens have scattered black spots on dorsum. Dead specimens often turn bluish.
Distribution and habitat
The Chinese green snake can be found in central and southern China (Hainan, Henan, Gansu, Anhui, Sichuan, Fujian, Guangdong, Guangxi, Guizhou, Hunan, Hubei, Jiangxi, Jiangsu, Shaanxi, Zhejiang, Hong Kong),[3] Taiwan, northern Vietnam, Laos and Bangladesh (Sylhet, Ratargul Swamp Forest).[4]
It is found in humid forests and farmland.
Behaviour and ecology
The Chinese green snake is diurnal and semi-arboreal. When encountered, they are mild-mannered and rarely bite.[4]
Feeding
Their diet includes earthworms, insect larvae, and other soft-bodied invertebrates.[4]
Reproduction
They are oviparous, laying 2–16 eggs per clutch. Young snakes hatch in about two months.