Green Tree Python (Morelia viridis)

Species · GBIF taxon 5225681

Green Tree Python

Morelia viridis

Also known as Chondro, Green Python

Green tree pythons spend almost their entire lives draped in characteristic saddle-like coils over tree branches, using their prehensile tails to anchor themselves securely. Hatchlings emerge as vibrant yellow or brick-red, transitioning to their namesake brilliant green only as they mature after their first year. Equipped with highly sensitive heat-sensing pits along their mouths, these nocturnal predators ambush unsuspecting prey in the dark rainforest canopy.

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—observations

—countries

—peak records

Least ConcernConservation status

Key facts

Diet & prey

Rodents
Skinks
Small forest birds

Predators

Raptors
Large monitor lizards
Rufous owls

ThreatsIllegal wildlife trade, smuggling, and habitat loss

HabitatsTropical rainforests, monsoon forests, and forest edges

Life span15 to 20 years in the wild

Size / weightNot available

Classification

FamilyPythonidae
GenusMorelia
SpeciesMorelia viridis

Range & activity

Range data is not available yet.

Safe observation

Interaction riskLow

Low
Moderate
High
Very high

Why interaction risk is low: Non-venomous but possesses long teeth and can strike defensively if startled.
Why it is dangerous: Equipped with exceptionally long, curved teeth designed to penetrate feathers and fur, which can inflict a painful, deep laceration.
How to recognize a risky encounter: Look for a bright green body with a white or yellow vertebral stripe, resting in a neat coil over a branch.
What to do: Never attempt to handle wild individuals; admire them from a respectful distance to prevent defensive strikes.
What to notice: Recognizable by their distinctive saddle-like resting posture on branches in tropical rainforests.
Support conservation: Never purchase wild-caught specimens, and report any suspected illegal collection to local wildlife authorities.

Responsible observation

Look Up: Search the lower canopy and understory branches during the day to spot their coiled resting posture.
Use Red Light: Observe them at night using a red-filtered flashlight to avoid disrupting their nocturnal hunting.
Keep Distance: Avoid touching or cornering wild individuals, as they will strike defensively if threatened.