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Anacondas Found in Texas

Anacondas are members of the boa constrictor family. Indigenous to South America, they can be found in the Amazon rain forests. If you find one in Texas, it likely came from somewhere else, and you might need a permit to keep it. Smaller anacondas, including Bolivian, dark-spotted and yellow species, do not require permits. But you will need a permit to have a green anaconda, which is a giant boa constrictor. The Texas Parks and Wildlife department regulates all nonindigenous venomous snakes and certain nonindigenous constrictors such as the green anaconda. Permits are available from the department for these giants.

Characteristics
- Green anacondas, considered the largest snakes in the world, weigh up to 550 pounds. These carnivore reptiles grow to 30 feet in length and measure 13 inches or more in diameter. Anacondas contain no venom. They consume any size prey in one swallow after coiling around the animal and constricting until suffocation. Female anacondas are larger than the males and produce more than 25 live offspring during birth.
Restrictions
- The Texas Parks and Wildlife department regulates the green anaconda constrictor to protect native wildlife. Regulations require a recreational permit for individuals who will possess and transport green anaconda snakes. Apply for a commercial permit if you plan to sell or breed green anacondas. Commercial permit holders are required to maintain daily records. Texas law enforcement officers and Parks and Wildlife department employees seize exotic live snakes from owners who do not possess required permits. Texas zoos are exempt from exotic live snake permit laws.
Care
- Anaconda snakes quickly outgrow aquarium tanks, so a large cage might be necessary. Include a shallow water tub (a cat litter box works well), tree branches and dry ground space. Maintain water depth at 2 to 3 inches and change the water frequently. An environmental temperature of 85 degrees Fahrenheit is optimal. Anacondas will show signs of respiratory stress if too cold. Add a heat lamp if necessary. Young anacondas eat goldfish and mice. Provide rabbits and rats for larger snakes. If you choose to breed green anaconda snakes, allow additional space and water. Green anaconda snakes measure approximately 2 feet long at birth. Expect them to swim immediately.
Considerations
- Plan for a long-term commitment if you plan to keep anacondas. They live for 30 years in captivity, compared with only 10 years in their natural habitat. It is against Texas law to knowingly release a green anaconda into the wild. The U.S. Geological Survey say giant non-native constrictors established in the wild put the U.S. ecosystem at risk because large predatory snakes, including the green anaconda, pose a threat to native animal species. Report any breaches to Texas Parks and Wildlife.

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