Bhubaneswar – Nandankanan Zoological Park is buzzing with excitement after the birth of 11 yellow anaconda hatchlings on July 4, marking a major milestone in the zoo’s reptile conservation program. With these new additions, the total count of yellow anacondas at the zoo has now reached 25.
This latest brood comes just days after the birth of seven baby anacondas on June 29, making it a double celebration for zoo officials and wildlife enthusiasts. The proud parents—part of a breeding pair brought from the Madras Crocodile Bank Trust in Chennai back in October 2019—have contributed significantly to the growth of the species in captivity.
According to Deputy Director Sanath Kumar, the current anaconda family at Nandankanan includes two adult males, two adult females, and now 21 juveniles. Immediately after birth, the hatchlings were carefully quarantined to ensure close monitoring and specialized care during their early development. They will later be moved to the main exhibit once they grow strong enough to feed independently.
To accommodate this growing family, zoo authorities are preparing to upgrade the existing anaconda enclosure, ensuring the snakes have ample space and a suitable environment. In the wild, yellow anacondas can stretch up to 14 feet, though those in captivity generally reach about 10 feet.
Native to the wetlands of South America—particularly Bolivia, Brazil, and Paraguay—yellow anacondas thrive in humid conditions. Zoo officials have worked meticulously to replicate those natural surroundings, offering the snakes a comfortable and enriching habitat within the park.
The birth of these hatchlings is more than just a zoological feat—it’s a testament to the zoo’s dedication to wildlife conservation and responsible breeding programs. As these tiny serpents begin their journey in Nandankanan, they also bring hope for the future of their species in captivity.
