Green Anaconda

Anacondas (Eunectes murinus) got their name from a Tamil word meaning 'elephant killer'. Although this is probably an exaggeration, anacondas are one of the heaviest snakes in the world and have been known to prey on crocodiles and small deer. One advantage (to the snake) is that a meal of this size will last for months as, although the victim is swallowed all in one go, the anaconda's slow-acting digestive system will work its way through it while the snake basks in the sun.

This nocturnal snake spends a lot of time in slow-moving rivers or swamps and is sometimes known as the water boa. It will remain almost submerged whilst waiting for suitable prey, breathing easily as its nostrils and eyes are on the top of its head. Its victim is usually dragged into the water to drown, but larger prey are squeezed with its coils until breathing stops.