Green tree python
Morelia viridis
At the Detroit Zoo
The green tree python can be found inside the Holden Reptile Conservation Center, located near the middle of the Detroit Zoo. There, visitors can learn about the 61 different species (and approximately 131 individuals) of reptiles at the Zoo, approximately 52 percent of which are considered threatened or endangered in the wild.
Description
As the name suggests, green tree pythons are green in color, with broken vertebral stripes that are white or dull yellow. Some also have blue, white or yellow spots. Green tree pythons have eight to fifteen thermosensory (heat sensitive) pits around their mouths that help them to detect infrared heat from warm-blooded prey.
Fun Facts
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The green tree python lures its food by sitting very still on a branch and dangling its tail. Curious about the wiggling tail, the prey gets close enough for a strike.