Nature Field Guide
Green Vine Snake
- Spanish name
- Bejuquilla verde
- Scientific name
- Oxybelis fulgidus
What Do Pico & Tati Think?
Pico: “What clues help us recognize this reptile?”
Tati: “Let’s notice its shape, markings and habitat from a respectful distance.”
Species overview
About the Green Vine Snake
The green vine snake has a very thin body, an elongated pointed snout and a long tail. Its shape can be as helpful for camouflage as its green color. A resting animal may follow a branch so closely that it is easy to overlook.
Look at verified photographs to compare this outline with other green snakes. Do not approach a living snake to inspect its eyes or head. Observe with a guide from a distance and leave vegetation around it untouched.
Identification
Key Features of the Green Vine Snake
Very slender green body
Elongated pointed snout
Exceptionally long tapering tail
Habitat & range
Wooded lowlands and foothills on both slopes, including Pacific and Caribbean forest edges.
Local observations
Native reptile recorded in Costa Rica. Presence varies with suitable habitat and locality.
When to observe
Visibility varies with weather, habitat and the animal’s activity. Observe on an appropriate guided outing; never disturb a hiding animal to obtain a sighting.
Conservation & care
Observe only from a distance with an adult or qualified guide. Do not touch, catch, corner or attempt to move any snake. Step back and tell your adult; keep children and pets away. Do not use colors, head shape or pupil shape to decide a snake is safe.
Threats & pressures
Protect habitat connections and natural shelters. Avoid road mortality, collection and deliberate killing. Leave reptiles in their habitat rather than keeping or relocating them.
Observation activity
Draw a vine and a vine snake side by side. Describe how a similar outline can help camouflage.
Explore by location
Caribbean · Central Pacific · Guanacaste · Northern Plains · Puntarenas & the Gulf Islands · South Pacific · Alajuela · Guanacaste · Heredia · Limón · Puntarenas