I believe the perception many people have about the unpredictability of green anaconda behavior is based mainly on the misunderstanding of the general demeanor of this animal. These snakes have evolved in most likely the most formidable environment of any boid species alive today. They have therefore developed an inherent caution with regards to their surroundings that is not seen with the other large boa and python species. Greens are an inherently shy and nervous species due to this evolutionary background, and this behavior needs to be taken into account when working with them in captivity. While many greens, especially captive born animals, can become very calm captives, there are many wild caught young greens that simply will not adapt to being handled. Selective breeding over the last 10 to 15 years or so has definitely lead to more manageable greens being produced in captivity.

I currently have 4 large adults and a number of younger greens that can all be handled with no problem, but there are certain things that still need to be considered with handling them. They all, mine at least, have exceptional feeding responses, and hit and constrict f/t prey with much more force and power than any python species. Once they realize food is not being offered, they can be removed from the unit without any problems. The main issue however is the shyness and nervousness that you can still see beneath the surface within even the calmest greens, and this needs to be addressed when working with them. They are easily surprised and startled, especially at night, so you just need to make sure they realize you are there and that you are about to interact with them. Also, being careful not to put them in a situation where they can be startled while handling them as well. Once that is done, I have never had biting or other behavioral issues with any of my greens, and they have been easy to interact with. Their behavior and physiology is much different than any other boid, and just this simple understanding of certain aspects of their behavior can go a long way in making them extremely interesting snakes to work with.

Kelly

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