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Smooth Greensnake

Opheodrys vernalis

ophevern.jpegPhoto Credit: A.B. Sheldon

Family: Colubridae (Non-venomous snakes)
Status: Common
Size: 14-20 inches

This species is often called the grass snake due to its color. The name "smooth" refers to the unkeeled scales which give the snake a sleek, smooth texture and appearance. This beautiful little snake is one of only five Wisconsin snakes to have unkeeled scales.

green-map.jpegSpecies range (darker) in Wisconsin

The bright emerald green color of this snake makes it easy to identify, although buff-colored individuals may be found in northern and central Wisconsin. No matter the adult color, the young are olive-green upon hatching. Smooth greensnakes frequent prairies, oak savannas, bracken grasslands, open areas in pine barrens and grassy areas along forest edges. Greensnakes feed on insects, grubs and worms.