Lichtenstein's Green Racer

About the Lichtenstein's Green Racer

Philodryas olfersii is a species of venomous snake in the subfamily Dipsadinae of the family Colubridae. The species is endemic to South America. Common names for Philodryas olfersii include Lichtenstein's green racer, South American green racer, and eastern green whiptail,

The specific name, olfersii, is in honor of German naturalist Ignaz von Olfers. Philodryas olfersii is native to southern South America, including northern Argentina, Brazil, Bolivia, and northwestern Paraguay. Philodryas olfersii reaches 1 to 1.5 meters (about 40 to 60 inches) in maximum total length (including tail).

Dorsally, it is green in color; ventrally, it is yellowish. The dorsal scales are smooth, without apical pits, and are arranged in 19 rows at midbody. Philodryas olfersii can be found in many habitat types, including the Cerrado, Caatinga, forest, forest transition, and restinga. It has been found at altitudes from sea level to 1,700 m (5,600 ft). The species Philodryas olfersii is often arboreal, but it also forages on the ground. It is diurnal, though it has been observed mating late in the evening... Wikipedia →