RANGE South America, east of the Andes
HABITAT Swamps, marshes, and slow-moving streams, mainly in the tropical rain forests of the Amazon and Orinoco basins
DIET Wild pigs, deer, birds, turtles, fish, capybara, caimans, and even jaguars
The green anaconda spends most of its time in the water. Its eyes and nostrils are on the top of its head, enabling it to see and breath while partially submerged. Anacondas are excellent swimmers and stay in or near water. They can reach surprising speeds in the water.
Green anacondas are ambush predators, typically hunting from the water.
The green anaconda is the largest snake in the Western Hemisphere. Green anacondas hold the record as the heaviest snakes in the world, with some reaching 500 pounds or more. Their girth can measure over 12 inches in diameter.
Green anacondas average 10 to 15 feet and 110 to 165 pounds.
All anaconda trade is prohibited in most South American countries. Anacondas do not have any natural predators. Their main threat is human encroachment.
