Review and images by Suspsy; edited by bmathison1972
The green tree python (Morelia viridis) of New Guinea and Indonesia is a relatively small python that usually grows to around 150-180 cm, with some large females achieving up to 200 cm. It is notable for its preferred method of perching in trees by looping its coils over a branch and then placing its head in the middle of the coils. This behaviour, along with the python’s colouration, gives it a striking resemblance to the emerald tree boa of South America. Convergent evolution strikes again!
While the real animal may be small, CollectA’s 2021 green tree python is relatively large, about the same size as their green anaconda. Measuring 14 cm long, it is sculpted as though it is uncoiling to strike at some prey. The tail and body are looped and the head is raised off the ground with the mouth wide open. Not only is it a cool pose, it’s also a fun one, as the loops allow you to dangle the python from your finger or from other objects in your house. The green tree python feeds mainly on rodents and other small mammals, which it catches by striking out at them while gripping a branch with its tail, so you can easily pretend that this one is doing just that.
As you’d rightly expect, the main colour here is an attractive bright green, with bright yellow wash and a very pale yellow underbelly. The eyes are yellow and the inside of the mouth is dull purple, as are the heat pits on the lower jaw. While it looks attractive and eye-catching, real green tree pythons tend to have yellow, white, or pale blue spots running down the length of their bodies.
Sculpting-wise, this toy is quite good. The body is scaly all over from head to tail, and with the right types of scales for the dorsal and ventral sides. It also looks appropriately muscular and has a discernible keel running down the entire spine. But the most impressive part of this toy is its head. It is the correct shape for a green tree python from all angles. The aforementioned heat pits on either side of the lower jaw are clearly visible. And the inside of the mouth is impressively detailed, right down to the tiny bumps that denote where the sharp teeth are.
To be honest, I was a little bit perplexed at first when CollectA revealed this toy, because I felt that the reticulated python was more deserving of that spot, what with it being the longest of all living snakes. But it does make sense. Not only is this toy visually attractive with all its bright green, but the green tree python is one of the most common snakes to be found in zoos, and plus it’s very popular in the exotic pet community. In other words, it has familiarity going for it. It’s quite a good toy overall, definitely the best of the three snakes CollectA has done thus far, and one that both my boys were pleased to add to their animal collection. Many thanks to Happy Hen Toys for this review sample!
With CollectA’s green anaconda and king cobra:
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I’ve always liked green tree pythons but have no interest in owning one as a pet. They’re mostly sedentary and don’t tolerate being handled well. Guess I’ll have to get the toy instead. Great review!