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Eastern Smooth Green Snake
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Two species and one subspecies of green snake occur in Ohio. Because they are small and secretive, blend in well with their surroundings, and are comparatively rare throughout their range, green snakes are only occasionally encountered.
Except for struggling violently when handled, even after being in captivity for some time, the green snakes are gentle and rarely bite. Unfortunately, they often cannot be induced to eat in captivity and therefore do not make hardy captives. |
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Eastern Smooth Green Snake
Opheodrys vernalis vernalis
At-a-Glance
• Typical foods: Insects; particularly crickets, grasshoppers, butterflies, small caterpillars, and ants
• Length: 14-20 inches
• Gestation period : 4-23 days
• Number of offspring : 3-11 |
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Description
As the name implies, these snakes are a beautiful grass green. The underbody is a yellowish cream color. It also has smooth scales.
Habitat and Habits
Green snakes have been found in a variety of places, including blackberry bushes, grapevines, shrubs, roadside ditches, open grassy meadows, and marshy grass. This dainty little snake inhabits the northeastern most quarter of Ohio. It is also more terrestrial than its cousin the rough green snake. However, it does not hesitate to climb small shrubs, where it handles itself remarkably well.
Reproduction and Care of the Young
Smooth green snakes mate soon after emerging from hibernation in the spring. The young are born in late summer. Females may share an egg-layng site. |
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