Pet Critique

Hi there, pet lovers! 🐍

Are you dreaming of owning one of the most awe-inspiring reptiles on the planet? The Green Anaconda (Eunectes murinus) might have crossed your mind, but before you dive into the world of giant snakes, let’s take a closer look at what it really means to care for one of these magnificent creatures. Known as the largest snake in the world, the Green Anaconda is a semi-aquatic powerhouse that commands respect and admiration. But is it the right pet for you? Let’s break it down.

Ease of Handling: 1/5

Let’s be honest—handling a Green Anaconda is not for the faint of heart. While young anacondas can be manageable (though still strong and occasionally feisty), adults are a completely different story. A fully grown Green Anaconda can reach lengths of 15 feet or more and weigh over 150 pounds. To put that into perspective, imagine trying to handle a snake that’s not only massive but also incredibly strong and semi-aquatic.

These snakes are not just heavy; they’re disproportionately powerful. Even a 12-foot, 70-pound anaconda (like the one featured in this review) requires a team of people to handle safely. Adult females, in particular, can become nearly impossible for a single person to manage. And let’s not forget—these snakes are constrictors. If an adult anaconda decides to coil around you, you’re going to need help, and fast.

Handling an anaconda also requires specialized tools, like a broad snake hook, to let the snake know it’s being handled and not fed. You’ll need to lift it out of the water carefully, as these snakes spend much of their time submerged. In short, while young anacondas can be handled with caution, adults are best left to experienced professionals or teams.

Care and Maintenance: 1/5

Caring for a Green Anaconda is a monumental task. These snakes are semi-aquatic, meaning they need both terrestrial and aquatic environments to thrive. Creating an enclosure that meets their needs is no small feat.

First, you’ll need an enormous enclosure—think the size of a small room. The enclosure must include a large water area deep enough for the snake to fully submerge itself, as well as a dry land area with appropriate substrate (cypress mulch is a great option). Heating is critical, with a basking spot of around 88-96°F and an ambient temperature of 78-80°F. You’ll also need to maintain high humidity levels, which can be tricky in such a large space.

The water portion of the enclosure is where things get particularly challenging. Anacondas are messy eaters and will often defecate in the water, so you’ll need a powerful filtration system to keep the water clean. Regular water changes and disinfecting are a must, and you’ll need to ensure the snake can’t damage or interfere with the filter.

Feeding an anaconda is another consideration. While they have a slow metabolism and only need to eat every couple of weeks (or even once a month as adults), their meals are anything but small. Adult anacondas can consume prey as large as caimans, jaguars, and, yes, even humans (though this is extremely rare). You’ll need a reliable source of large feeders, which can be both expensive and logistically challenging.

In short, caring for a Green Anaconda is a full-time job that requires significant space, resources, and expertise.

Health and Durability: 4/5

Despite their demanding care requirements, Green Anacondas are surprisingly hardy animals. As long as their basic needs are met—proper humidity, clean water, and stable temperatures—they can thrive in captivity. However, there are a few health concerns to watch out for.

Dehydration is the biggest threat to anacondas, especially if they don’t have access to enough water. Obesity is another common issue, as these snakes will eat voraciously if given the chance. It’s important to stick to a strict feeding schedule and monitor their weight closely.

With proper care, Green Anacondas can live long, healthy lives. They’re resilient animals, but their size and strength mean that even minor health issues can quickly become major problems if not addressed promptly.

Availability: 3/5

Green Anacondas aren’t as common as some other snake species, but they’re not exactly rare either. You won’t find them in every pet store, but they are available at reptile expos and through reputable breeders online. However, it’s important to check your local laws before acquiring one, as they are illegal to own in some areas.

If you’re set on owning an anaconda, you’ll likely be able to find one without too much trouble. Just make sure you’re prepared for the responsibility that comes with such a massive animal.

Initial Cost: 1/5

Let’s talk numbers. The snake itself can be expensive, with prices ranging from a few hundred to several thousand dollars depending on the morph and breeder. But the real cost comes from setting up an appropriate enclosure.

You’ll need a massive enclosure with both land and water areas, high-quality heating and lighting equipment, a powerful filtration system, and plenty of substrate. All of this can easily run into the thousands of dollars. And don’t forget the ongoing costs of feeding, maintaining the enclosure, and potentially hiring help for handling.

If cost is a concern, a Green Anaconda is definitely not the pet for you.

Final Thoughts: 2/5

The Green Anaconda is undeniably one of the most impressive animals on the planet. Its sheer size, strength, and semi-aquatic lifestyle make it a fascinating creature to observe and care for. However, it’s also one of the most challenging pets you could possibly own.

From the difficulty of handling an adult anaconda to the monumental task of creating and maintaining a suitable enclosure, this is not a snake for beginners—or even most experienced keepers. Unless you have the space, resources, and expertise to care for a giant semi-aquatic snake, we recommend admiring Green Anacondas from a distance.

If you’re set on owning a large snake, consider a more manageable species like a Common Boa or Burmese Python. But if you’re determined to own the most massive snake in the world, the Green Anaconda is the ultimate choice—just be prepared for the challenges that come with it.

Have you ever encountered a Green Anaconda? Share your thoughts and experiences in the comments below—we’d love to hear from you! 🐍