Green Tree Python

The Green Tree Python is a non-venomous constrictor native to the rainforests of New Guinea, nearby islands, and the Cape York Peninsula of Australia. It is a classic example of convergent evolution, closely resembling the unrelated emerald tree boa of South America despite living on the opposite side of the world.

Juveniles are often strikingly different in color from adults, typically hatching in yellow or red morphs before transitioning to green as they mature.

• Vivid green adult coloration, often with scattered white or yellow markings along the spine
• Juveniles typically bright yellow or red, changing color with age
• Prehensile tail adapted for gripping branches
• Distinct triangular head with heat-sensing pits
• Vertically elliptical pupils
• Distinguished from the emerald tree boa by geographic range and subtle scale differences, as they are not closely related

Found in tropical rainforests of New Guinea, surrounding islands, and the Cape York Peninsula of far northern Australia. Almost entirely arboreal, rarely descending to the forest floor except to move between trees.

Nocturnal and highly arboreal, often resting coiled over a branch in a characteristic saddle-like posture during the day. Feeds on small mammals, birds, and lizards, using heat-sensing pits to detect prey. Reproduction is oviparous, with females coiling around their eggs during incubation.