Florida’s warm climate and diverse ecosystems often lead to questions about large, exotic snakes. Understanding the reality of these reptiles helps clarify common misconceptions about the state’s wildlife.
Anacondas in Florida
Green anacondas are not established as a wild, breeding population in Florida. While individuals have been observed or captured since 2010, these are almost exclusively escaped or illegally released pets. Such sightings are isolated and do not indicate a thriving wild population. To prevent their establishment, green anacondas were added to Florida’s Prohibited species list in April 2021, restricting private ownership.
Other Large Snakes in Florida
Florida is home to other established invasive large constrictors.
Burmese Pythons
Burmese pythons (Python bivittatus) have an established breeding population, particularly in South Florida, especially within the Everglades ecosystem. These pythons originally entered the wild primarily through the exotic pet trade, with many released by owners or escaping after events like Hurricane Andrew in 1992. They impact native wildlife by preying on various mammals and birds, contributing to population declines. Burmese pythons are typically tan with dark blotches resembling puzzle pieces or giraffe patterns, and they have a pyramid-shaped head with a dark, arrowhead-shaped wedge. Adults in Florida commonly average between 6 and 9 feet, though some have been found over 18 feet long.
Boa Constrictors
Another established invasive species in Florida is the boa constrictor (Boa constrictor), though its breeding populations are more localized, notably in eastern Miami-Dade County. Boa constrictors are identifiable by their tan or light brown background with dark brown hourglass-shaped saddles along the body that become reddish bands towards the tail. These snakes typically reach lengths of 10 to 16 feet and can pose a threat to native species and pets.
Why Anacondas Are Not Established
Green anacondas are native to the tropical rainforests, floodplains, and swamps of South America, primarily within the Amazon and Orinoco basins. They are semi-aquatic, requiring consistent access to shallow, slow-moving waters and high humidity. While Florida’s climate is warm and includes many wetlands, it may not consistently provide the precise environmental conditions necessary for widespread, self-sustaining breeding populations. Specific factors like prey availability, seasonal water levels, and temperature variations could prevent anacondas from establishing as widely as Burmese pythons, which have demonstrated greater adaptability.
Encountering a Large Snake
If you encounter a large, non-native snake in Florida, maintain a safe distance and do not attempt to approach or handle it. The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) encourages the public to report sightings of non-native species. Report sightings by calling the Invasive Species Hotline at 888-Ive-Got1 (888-483-4681), using the free IveGot1 mobile app, or visiting IveGot1.org. When reporting, try to take a clear photograph and note the exact location, as this information is valuable for identification and management. Non-native constrictors can be humanely killed on private property with landowner permission, and on FWC-managed lands without a permit.