Southern Green Python

The green tree python is characterized by a relatively slim body. The long tail accounts for about 14% of the total length. The head is large and clearly defined from the neck. The snout is large and angular. The body is triangular in cross section with a visible spine. The species usually reaches a total length (including tail) of 150–180 cm (4.9–5.9 ft), but large females may reach 200 cm (6.6 ft). The size also varies depending on the region of origin. The weight is highly dependent upon the nutritional status of the animal. Males can weigh about 1,100–1,400 g (2.4–3.1 lb), females up to 1,600 g (3.5 lb), although wild specimens are typically much lighter than this. Especially large specimens that can weigh up to 2,200 g (4.9 lb) are invariably females, which, like most snakes, are slightly larger and heavier than males.

M. viridis is found in Eastern Indonesia (Misool, Salawati, Aru Islands, Schouten Islands, most of Western New Guinea), Papua New Guinea (including nearby islands from sea level to 1,800 m elevation, Normanby Island and the d'Entrecasteaux Islands) and Australia (Queensland along the east coast of the Cape York Peninsula). The type locality given is "Aroe-eilanden" (Aru Islands, Indonesia). This species is sympatric with M. spilota and the two often compete in the same ecological niche. The preferred natural habitat of M. viridis is in or near rainforests, and the species is primarily arboreal, residing in trees, shrubs, and bushes. Occasionally, it is seen on the ground.

Primarily arboreal, M. viridis has a particular way of resting in the branches of trees; it loops a coil or two over the branches in a saddle position and places its head in the middle of its loops. This trait is shared with the emerald tree boa (Corallus caninus) of South America. This habit, along with their similar appearance, has caused people to confuse the two species when they are seen outside their natural habitat.