Which rainforest reptile can glide by flattening its body and is called the paradise flying snake?

The paradise flying snake is the rainforest reptile that glides by flattening its body into a broad, ribbon-like shape. Its scientific name is Chrysopelea paradisi, and it is native to parts of South and Southeast Asia.

Although called a flying snake, it does not have wings and cannot truly fly. It launches from branches, pulls in its belly, spreads its ribs, and forms a concave surface that helps generate lift. By moving its head and body in a side-to-side motion, it can steer during the glide.

The snake is arboreal and spends much of its time in trees. It eats small animals such as lizards, frogs, birds, and bats. Like other members of its genus, it is mildly venomous, but it is not considered dangerous to humans.

Paradise flying snakes are one of several gliding vertebrates in Asian forests. Flying squirrels, colugos, and gliding lizards use different anatomical structures, while Chrysopelea achieves aerial movement through its remarkable body shape.