What is the difference between the Emerald Tree Boa (Corallus caninus) and the Green Tree Python (Morelia viridis)?

The Emerald Tree Boa and the Green Tree Python are both non-venomous arboreal (tree) reptiles and snakes.

The Emerald Tree Boa and the Green Tree Python are bright green with yellowish underbellies. 

The Emerald Tree Boa and the Green Tree Python are similar in length, measuring about 200 centimetres (79 inches). They both loop around a branch, into a coil-shape, with their head in the middle. 

The Emerald Tree Boa has white zig-zag markings on its spine and belly, called lightning bolts. The Green Tree Python has white or yellowish scales dotted over its ridged spine. 

The Emerald Tree Boa is native to South America, whereas the Green Tree Python is native to northern Australia, Indonesian islands, and Papua New Guinea.

The Emerald Tree Boa is ovoviviparous, which means that the 6-14 eggs hatch inside the female and the snakelets are born alive. The Green Tree Python is oviparous – the female lays about 25 eggs.  

Photographer: Martina Nicolls

Martina Nicolls: SIMILAR BUT DIFFERENT IN THE ANIMAL KINGDOM