Smooth green snake

(Liochlorophis vernalis)

NH Conservation Status: Species of Special Concern; NH Wildlife Action Plan Species in Greatest Need of Conservation (Click here to download the Reptiles and Amphibians section of the NH Wildlife Action Plan. Smooth green snake is on page 60.)

State Rank Status: Vulnerable

Distribution: Throughout NH, including Isles of Shoals

Description: A thin, slender bright-green snake measuring 10-20 inches. The underside is white or a pale yellow.

Commonly Confused Species: None

Habitat: Found in upland grassy fields, pastures, meadows, blueberry barrens, and forest openings.

Life History: During late summer 7-9 eggs are laid under rotting wood, rocks, or underground in loose soil. Eggs may be laid communally. Hibernates underground and sometimes communally with other snakes. Probably eats mostly insects.

Conservation Threats: Loss of open fields from succession or development, pesticide and insecticide spraying.

Distribution map: Click here for a map showing the towns where this species is reported to occur in NH

Photo by USFWS / Carl Passardt	Though they are capable climbers, smooth green snakes are much more likely to be found on the ground. Photo by USFWS / Luther C. Goldman
Photo by Brendan Clifford.
Photo by Mike Marchand.