Chinese green snake

The Chinese green snake (Ptyas major) is a species of snake in the family Colubridae.^[1][2]

Clip

Greater green snake
Conservation status
Least Concern  (IUCN 3.1)[1]
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]
List Cyclophis major Günther, 1858 Herpetodryas chloris Hallowell, 1861 Ablabes major – Boettger, 1894 Entechinus major – Cope, 1895 Liopeltis major – Stejneger, 1907 Liopeltis major bicarinata Maki, 1931 Eurypholis major – Pope, 1935 Opheodrys major – M.A. Smith, 1943 Cyclophiops major – Ota, 1991

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.