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Two species and one subspecies of greensnake occur in Ohio. Because they are small and secretive, blend in well with their surroundings, and are comparatively rare throughout their range, greensnakes are only occasionally encountered.
Except for struggling violently when handled, even after being in captivity for some time, the greensnakes are gentle and never bite. Unfortunately, they often cannot be induced to eat in captivity and therefore do not make hardy captives.
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Rough Greensnake
Opheodrys aestivus
At-a-Glance
• Typical foods: Insects--particularly crickets, grasshoppers, butterflies, small caterpillars, and ants--plus spiders
• Peak Breeding Activity: spring and fall
• Incubation: 5-12 weeks
• Clutch Size: 3-12 eggs
• Length: 22-32 inches
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Description
As the name implies, these snakes are a beautiful grass green. The underbody is a yellowish cream color. Much longer than the smooth greensnake, it is more arboreal and has rough instead of smooth scales.
Habitat and Habits
Greensnakes have been found in a variety of places, including blackberry bushes, grapevines, shrubs, roadside ditches, open grassy meadows, and marshy grass. The rough green snake lives in the extreme southern quarter of the state.
Reproduction and Care of the Young
These snakes lay elongate eggs under a stone or log. No parental care is involved. |
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