What Are Anaconda Snakes?

Anacondas are members of the boa family and cousins to the python. They live in the tropical rainforest of South America in areas such as the Amazon and Orinoco basins. These snakes are non-poisonous constrictors that are either green or yellow with oval black to brownish patches along their back. The pattern of patches is unique to each snake, like a human fingerprint.

  1. Basic Facts

    • Anacondas are the largest snakes in the world. They weigh up to 550 lbs., reach lengths up to 30 feet, are approximately 12 inches in diameter and have an average lifespan of 10 years. Females are larger than males.

    Habitat

    • Anacondas spend most of their time in the water in areas such as marshes, swamps and slow moving streams. Their coloring allows them to blend into the dense vegetation. Their eyes and nose are on top of the head so they can see their prey and breathe while situated just beneath the water's surface.

    Prey

    • Anacondas are constrictors, which means they coil their muscular bodies around their prey and squeeze until it asphyxiates. They have strong teeth that they use to pull the prey under the water, drowning it. Anacondas are carnivores that swallow prey whole. They feed on such things as rodents, wild pigs, deer, birds, turtles, capybara, camans and jaguars. Their slow digestive systems allow a meal to last for weeks or months.

    Mating

    • A pregnant anaconda holds her young for six months. She gives birth to 25 to 40 live babies that are approximately 2 feet long. The babies, within hours, are able to swim and hunt.