Rough Green Snake

Opheodrys aestivus

The rough green snake is a non-venomous snake with a bright green body and yellow belly. It can grow up to 46 inches long.

Where does the rough green snake live?

Rough green snakes are found in moist woods and meadows, often near a water source. Their home range stretches as far south as Texas and northeast to New Jersey.

What does the rough green snake eat?

Rough green snakes feast primarily on insects, but sometimes devour small frogs and snails.

How does the rough green snake reproduce?

Rough green snakes reproduce in the spring and sometimes in the fall.

• The female rough green snake lays two to 14 eggs in a nest that she often shares with other females.
• Eggs hatch in August or September, yielding baby snakes that are 7 to 8 inches in length. 

Other facts about the rough green snake:

• The rough green snake is docile and rarely bites.
• Although rough green snakes usually live in trees, they are also very good swimmers.
• Unlike most snakes, rough green snakes are diurnal, meaning they are most active during the day. 
• Rough green snakes are not listed as a threatened species, but pesticide use, development near waterways, and car traffic may affect their health and survival.

Image courtesy John White/Virginia Herpetological Society