Bhubaneswar, June 30: In a significant stride towards reptile conservation, Nandankanan Zoological Park (NZP) in Odisha has witnessed the successful birth of seven yellow anacondas, adding to its growing family of exotic reptiles. The hatchlings were born to a breeding pair brought to the zoo from the Madras Crocodile Bank Trust in Chennai in October 2019.
This is the second successful breeding event at the zoo, following the birth of nine hatchlings in July 2022. With the latest additions, the zoo now houses two adult males, two adult females, and ten young yellow anacondas. Officials also revealed that another female anaconda is currently gravid and expected to give birth soon, further strengthening the park's efforts in species propagation.
“This marks a major achievement in our ongoing reptile conservation programme,” said a zoo official. “Each successful breeding enhances our ability to contribute meaningfully to wildlife conservation and education.”
Yellow anacondas (Eunectes notaeus), native to South America, are non-venomous constrictors and considered vulnerable in several regions due to habitat loss and illegal wildlife trade. Their successful breeding in captivity is considered both rare and challenging, making NZP’s achievement especially noteworthy.
The zoo aims to leverage this success to raise public awareness about the importance of reptile conservation. Plans are underway to strengthen breeding initiatives and showcase the new hatchlings to educate visitors about the ecological role and conservation status of these reptiles.
Nandankanan Zoological Park continues to serve as a vital centre for wildlife preservation, not just in Odisha but across India. This recent development reinforces its standing as a key player in the conservation of rare and endangered species.
