The green anaconda which is popularly called global the biggest snakeit has also been a topic of discussion among scientists, adventurers and nature lovers. A recent National Geographic study revealed that what was once thought to be one species is actually two genetically distinct species: the southern green anaconda and the newly discovered northern green anaconda. These reptiles are famous for their enormous size and constricting power, and are found in the lush rainforests and swamps of South America. Here are 5 amazing facts about this creature that will surprise you
Diffusion of balls
Male green anacondas gather in groups around a single female during mating season, so-called “breedings”. Several males, sometimes up to 12, curl around the female and click their tongues to sample her pheromones. This slow-motion struggle can take 2 to 3 weeks as the males fight for a chance to mate.
Cannibalism
Cannibalism is not uncommon among green anacondas. Female anacondas are much larger than males, and they often eat smaller males during mating. This may be because they require comparatively more nutrients during the long gestation period. Widespread cannibalism among green anacondas suggests that these snakes have intensive survival strategies. It shows the harsh realities of life in the wild, where every opportunity matters for nutrition, survival and reproductive success.
Experts in ambush
Green anacondas are ambush predators that spend most of their time underwater, leaving only their eyes and nostrils exposed above the surface of the water. They choose strategic moves to hide and wait for unsuspecting prey to approach. As soon as it approaches, it swims quickly to catch it, using its powerful body to squeeze and suffocate its prey. This method of hunting is very effective. The green anaconda can hunt a variety of prey – from fish to large mammals.
Ancient relatives
The ancestors of the green anaconda were even larger than the modern species. Paleontologists have found fossils of a prehistoric snake called Titanoboa. This snake was up to 14 meters (46 feet) long and weighed up to 1,200 kilograms (2,645 pounds). This huge snake lived in the Amazon region about 60 million years ago, when the climate was much warmer.
Camouflage experts
The green anaconda’s olive-green skin and dark spots make up for its excellent camouflage in its natural habitat. This color of their body blends perfectly with green waters and dense rainforests, making the anaconda virtually invisible to both prey and predators. This natural camouflage is an adaptation that helps it hunt prey without being detected. Green anacondas can hide in their habitat, striking quickly and easily, which helps them survive in the wild. The effectiveness of camouflage in their environment underscores its importance in the animal world.
Photo credits: Canva
