Smooth GreenSnake

Opheodrys vernalis
NON-VENOMOUS

Photo: Sean McMullen

Map accurate as of 1/31/2024

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Identification: 

• Hatchlings average between 3.9-5.9 inches (10-15 cm
• Adults can reach lengths of up to 24.4 inches (62 cm)
  
• Dorsal side is uniformly green (fades to blueish after death)
• Ventral side is white in coloration
• Smooth scales
• Hatchlings are typically gray or brown, rather than green

(Hammerson 1999)
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Distribution: In Colorado, this snake exists in montane regions at elevations between 5,500-9,000 feet (1,675-2,745 m).
(Hammerson 1999)
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Activity: In Colorado, the Smooth Greensnake is typically active from May to September, though warmer temperatures may allow for activity earlier or later in the year. This species is diurnal, making it exclusively active during the day. They seem to be more abundant around places with higher moisture, though there are cases where this is not true.
(Hammerson 1999)

Conservation Status: Designated as a non-game species in Colorado. Locally abundant in some areas, Smooth Greensnake observations tend to be lower due to their secretive behavior (Hammerson, 1999). Factors such as habitat transformation and fragmentation affect this species, though the amount of suitable habitat remaining in the state remains high. Overall, the status of this snake in the state of Colorado is likely secure.

NatureServe rank: G5 (Globally Secure), S4 (State Apparently Secure).

Habitat: ​Smooth Greensnakes prefer to inhabit “... lush growths of herbaceous and shrubby vegetation along mountain and foothill streams and meadow habitats adjacent to riparian vegetation” (Hammerson, 1999). However, on the west slope of Colorado, they have been noted to occur in shrubland farther from water. This snake can be found under rocks, logs, and other natural cover. (Hammerson, 1999)
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Diet: The diet of a Smooth Greensnake primarily includes insects, spiders, and other invertebrates. ​(Hammerson 1999)
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Defense: When conditions are windy, Smooth Greensnakes will sometimes sway to blend in with the vegetation around them (Hayden Lewis, personal observation). In general, Smooth Greensnakes are quite docile when handled. However, there are some cases where the snake will squirm about or excrete cloacal sac secretions when distressed (Hammerson, 1999).

Natural Predators: Predators of this snake likely include birds of prey, mammals, and other snakes. ​(Hammerson 1999)
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Cited & Additional Resources
Hammerson G. A. 1999. Amphibians and Reptiles in Colorado. University Press Colorado, Boulder.

Account compiled by: Hayden Lewis
Reviewed by: 
Last Updated: 1/28/2023 by Anthony Berardi