Jayapura Green Tree Python

The Jayapura green tree python originates from the hills and lowland forest surrounding Jayapura, the largest city and provincial capital of Papua, Indonesia, on the island's northern coast. It represents another named locality form within the widespread species Morelia viridis.

Biologically it is identical to other green tree pythons, with the classic ontogenetic color change from bright juvenile hues to adult green, differing chiefly in the fine pattern details associated with its home range.

• Green adult body color with variable pale vertebral markings
• Occasional light blue or yellow flecking reported in some individuals
• Large, triangular head clearly set off from the neck, with heat-sensing labial pits
• Vertical pupils
• Prehensile tail and laterally compressed body form
• Juveniles are yellow or red, transitioning to green over months

Inhabits lowland and lower montane rainforest in the hills surrounding Jayapura on New Guinea's northern coast, using understory saplings, forest edge vegetation, and riverine growth.

Nocturnal ambush hunter that rests coiled on a perch by day and becomes active at dusk to prey on small mammals, birds, and lizards. Relies on constriction rather than venom. Oviparous, with females protectively coiling around egg clutches through incubation.