Green Tree Python
Common Name: Green Tree Python
Scientific Name: Morelia viridis
Names: N/A
Locations: Whitby
Diet
Green Tree Pythons are carnivorous and primarily feed on a diet consisting of small mammals, birds, and occasionally reptiles. They are ambush predators, lying in wait for prey to pass by before striking with precision.
Average lifespan
In the wild, Green Tree Pythons typically live around 15 to 20 years, though they may live longer in captivity with proper care.
Size
Green Tree Pythons are relatively small to medium-sized pythons, with adults reaching lengths of up to 120 to 180 centimeters (4 to 6 feet) on average.
Weight
Adult Green Tree Pythons can weigh anywhere from 1 to 2 kilograms (2.2 to 4.4 pounds), with females generally being larger and heavier than males.
About
Green Tree Pythons are native to New Guinea, Indonesia, and parts of Australia, where they inhabit tropical rainforests and dense vegetation. They are arboreal snakes, spending much of their time in trees and bushes where they can blend in with their surroundings and ambush prey.
Size and behavior
Green Tree Pythons have a distinctive appearance characterized by their bright green coloration, which helps them camouflage among the foliage of trees. They are nocturnal hunters and are typically more active during the night, using their keen eyesight and heat-sensing pits to locate prey in the dark.
Diet and nutrition
Green Tree Pythons are carnivorous predators and require a diet rich in protein to thrive in captivity. In addition to live or frozen rodents, they may also consume birds and occasionally reptiles. Providing a varied diet ensures that they receive the necessary nutrients for growth, muscle development, and overall health.
Conservation status
The conservation status of Green Tree Pythons is currently of least concern. While they may face localized threats from habitat loss and fragmentation in some areas, they are still relatively abundant and widespread throughout their range. However, like many snake species, they may be impacted by habitat destruction, climate change, and human activities.
Fun fact
Green Tree Pythons are known for their unique hunting behavior. They are ambush predators and use their prehensile tails to anchor themselves to branches while waiting for prey to pass by. When striking, they can extend their bodies with remarkable speed and accuracy to capture prey. Additionally, Green Tree Pythons are arboreal egg layers, meaning they lay their eggs in tree hollows or other suitable locations rather than burying them in the ground like many other snake species.
Call or visit your local Reptilia Facility to learn how you can adopt one of these amazing reptiles.
