Kolkata, Jul 10 – Alipore Zoo is set to enhance its reptile collection with the addition of a green anaconda, as confirmed by director Arun Mukhopadhyay on Thursday. The giant snake will be transported by road from the Madras Crocodile Bank in Chennai, following the necessary approvals from the Central Zoo Authority.

This new arrival will increase the total number of anacondas at Alipore Zoo to 21, which includes several baby reptiles. The green anaconda, a full-grown adult, will be accommodated in a specially designed transparent enclosure that has been a significant attraction for visitors, particularly children, since its establishment two years ago.

Previously, Alipore Zoo housed only yellow anacondas, all sourced from the same crocodile bank. In a reciprocal arrangement, the zoo has gifted a Banded Krait to the Madras Crocodile Bank.

The green anaconda, often featured in Hollywood horror films, has garnered considerable public interest, with its natural habitat primarily located in the Amazon rainforest of Brazil. The zoo will provide a standard diet plan, supplying small animals for the green anaconda’s feeding needs.

Upon arrival in Kolkata, the reptile will undergo a veterinary check and will be monitored for a few days before being introduced to the public, as stated by the senior zoo official.