Kentucky Snake Identification
Kentucky Snake Identification

Rough Greensnake (Opheodrys aestivus)

Rough Greensnake (Opheodrys aestivus)

Rough Greensnake (Opheodrys aestivus)
Rough Greensnake (Opheodrys aestivus)

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Rough Greensnake (Opheodrys aestivus)
Rough Greensnake (Opheodrys aestivus)
Rough Greensnake (Opheodrys aestivus)
Rough Greensnake (Opheodrys aestivus)
Rough Greensnake (Opheodrys aestivus)
Rough Greensnake (Opheodrys aestivus)
Non-venomous

Geographic Region Information for the Rough Greensnake (Opheodrys aestivus)

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Appearance

Rough Greensnakes are slender, solid green snakes with a yellowish to white belly. Recently killed or preserved individuals are blueish. Scales are keeled and the anal plate is divided.

Size

Rough Greensnakes typically reach about 2 feet in total length.

Habitat/Range

This species is found statewide. They inhabit bushes, vines and shrubby vegetation along forest edges, roadways and wetlands.

Natural History

Rough Greensnakes eat primarily invertebrates, especially grasshoppers, crickets, and spiders. They are active only during daylight hours. Mating occurs in spring, and females lay eggs during the summer.

Notes/Miscellaneous

Rough Greensnakes rely on camouflage as their primary defense. Only the well-trained eye can spot these snakes when they are within vegetation. 

Supplemental Images

Rough Greensnake (Opheodrys aestivus)
Rough Greensnake (Opheodrys aestivus)
Rough Greensnake (Opheodrys aestivus)
Rough Greensnake (Opheodrys aestivus)