Anaconda

Anaconda

An anaconda kills its prey by coiling its muscular body around the creature and squeezing until the animal can no longer breathe. Jaws attached by stretchy ligaments allow the snake to swallow its prey whole, no matter the size. Anacondas can go weeks or months without eating after a big meal.

Anacondas like to be in or near water, and they are excellent swimmers. Their eyes and nostrils are on top of their heads, so they can keep their body hidden underwater as they wait for prey.

Humans are the anaconda’s most dangerous predator. In many parts of South America, they are hunted, both legally and illegally for their skin and for sale in the illegal pet trade. Often, these snakes are killed just because people fear and dislike them.

Area:
South America

Habitat:  
Rain forests and wetlands

Food:
Wild pigs, deer, birds, turtles, capybaras, caimans, and jaguars

Size:
Up to 30 feet (almost as long as a school bus!)

Babies:  
Measure 2 feet long at birth and take care of themselves from the start

(source:googe/http://adminkids.sandiegozoo.org)