Common Tree Snake
Dendrelaphis punctulata
Non-Venomous
Other common names: Green Tree Snake, Yellow-bellied Black Snake, Grass Snake
Species Profile
Common Tree Snake
Significance to Humans
Non-Venomous
Common Tree Snakes are docile, rarely bites, but can releases a strong odour from its cloaca when handled firmly.
General Description
Common Tree Snakes features a sleek, slender body with a long, thin tail. Its unique ridge along the outer edges of the belly makes shed skins easily identifiable. The snake displays a wide variety of colours, ranging from green, olive, brown, and black, with some rare specimens exhibiting a blue-grey hue on the upper body. The belly is usually yellow or creamy, with bright yellow on the throat. Occasionally, some individuals may have a blue or grey belly, but generally maintain the yellow colouration above the ventral ridges. Skin between the scales when spread either in defensive or after consuming a large meal show as a light sky blue. The eyes appear relatively large compared to the head, adding to its distinct appearance. Midbody scales at 11 -13 rows (rarely 15).
Average Length
1.2 metres but a specimen of 1.96 metres has been recorded.
Habitat in SE Qld
Common Tree Snakes thrives in diverse habitats, ranging from the outskirts of rainforests, wet sclerophyll forests, and dry woodlands to farmlands, suburban backyards, and gardens across the region.
General habits
Common Tree snakes are Diurnal (Active by day)
Diet
Will prey predominantly on frogs and skinks.
Local distribution
Common Tree snakes are a common species & widespread throughout Brisbane.
Around the home
The Common Tree Snake is the most likely species to enter homes and is commonly found in above-ground environments, including the dense foliage of trees and shrubs, exposed beams of verandahs and pergolas, sheds, and garages. Its fast and elusive movements make it challenging to spot in heavy cover. The abundance of Asian house Geckoes, skinks, and frogs in suburban areas with continuous water sources has contributed to their frequent presence around homes.
Common Tree Snake Gallery
