Smooth green snakes are primarily found in the Nearctic region, which includes parts of Canada, the United States, and northern Mexico. Their range extends from southeastern Canada, specifically Ontario and Quebec, westward to Saskatchewan. In the United States, you can find them in states such as Illinois, Virginia, Wyoming, New Mexico, Iowa, Missouri, Colorado, Kansas, Texas, Mississippi, and even parts of northern Mexico.
Personally, I have had the opportunity to observe smooth green snakes in Illinois, where they are relatively common. I remember hiking through a wooded area one summer and coming across a small clearing where several smooth green snakes were basking in the sun, blending in perfectly with the surrounding vegetation. It was fascinating to see their bright green coloration and slender bodies, which allowed them to effortlessly maneuver through the low grasses and shrubs.
One of the reasons smooth green snakes are able to thrive in such a diverse range of habitats is their adaptability. They are typically found in grasslands, meadows, marshes, and open woodlands, where they can take advantage of the abundant vegetation for camouflage and hunting. These snakes have a strong affinity for areas with dense vegetation, as it provides them with ample cover from predators and a variety of insects and spiders to feed on.
During my time in Texas, I had the chance to encounter smooth green snakes in a different type of habitat. In this region, they were frequently spotted in the tall grasses and wildflowers of prairies and open fields. It was interesting to see how their coloration blended in with the greenery, making them almost invisible to the untrained eye. In these grassland habitats, smooth green snakes play an important role in controlling insect populations, particularly those of grasshoppers and crickets.
Smooth green snakes can be found in a wide range of habitats throughout the Nearctic region. From the southeastern provinces of Canada to various states in the United States and even parts of northern Mexico, these snakes have adapted to diverse ecosystems, showcasing their ability to thrive in different environments. Their preference for areas with dense vegetation provides them with the necessary cover and food sources to survive and flourish.