| Chrysopelea ornata | |
|---|---|
| |
Scientific classification 
| |
| Domain: | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom: | Animalia |
| Phylum: | Chordata |
| Class: | Reptilia |
| Order: | Squamata |
| Suborder: | Serpentes |
| Family: | Colubridae |
| Subfamily: | Ahaetuliinae |
| Genus: | Chrysopelea |
| Species: | C. ornata
|
| Binomial name | |
| Chrysopelea ornata (Shaw, 1802)
| |
Chrysopelea ornata (Thai: งูเขียวพระอินทร์) is a mildly venomous opisthoglyphous (rear-fanged) colubrid snake found in both South and Southeast Asia. It is commonly known as the golden tree snake, ornate flying snake, and golden flying snake.[2][3][4] Along with the other species in the Chrysopelea genus, the golden tree snake is very unusual, as it is capable of a type of gliding "flight" (more of a controlled "throwing" or "falling")—mainly utilised during the pursuit of prey animals—from tree-to-tree. This action is also used to great effect for the snake to flee its own potential predators (such as birds or other reptiles). Currently, three subspecies are recognised. The snake's striking looks, and potential for gliding, have made it a coveted choice for captivity.
- ^ Nguyen, T.Q.; Thy, N.; Chan-Ard, T.; Srinivasulu, C.; Srinivasulu, B.; Mohapatra, P.; Shankar, G.; Agarwal, I.; Kulkarni, N.U.; Suraj, M. (2021). "Chrysopelea ornata". IUCN Red List of Threatened Species. 2021: e.T172609A1351413. doi:10.2305/IUCN.UK.2021-3.RLTS.T172609A1351413.en. Retrieved 30 October 2022.
- ^ Daniels,J. C. (2002) The Book of Indian Reptiles and Amphibians, BNHS & Oxford University Press, Mumbai, pp 106–107.
- ^ Ecology Asia - Snakes of Southeast Asia: page on Golden Tree Snake[1].
- ^ Encyclopædia Britannica online [2] Accessed 07 Sep 2007