12th Annual Smithsonian Magazine Photo Contest Natural World
An arboreal snake explores the ground in Costa Rica

Most people, when walking inside the rain forest are particularly aware of the presence of deadly snakes. But in reality snakes can be found living in trees and at low heights making it difficult to imaging from where they can come. In reality this is not a deadly snake but it is key to understand how important they are for controlling pests and even large snakes not always, despite being venomous, will attack unless they are provoked. This one is a common snail-eater.

Photo Detail
Date Taken: 05.2014
Date Uploaded: 10.2014
Photo Location: Costa Rica
Copyright: © Juan Carlos Vindas