Yellow anaconda (Eunectes notaeus)
Photo: Patrick Jean / Copyrighted free use · via Wikimedia Commons

Reptile · Boa

Yellow anaconda care guide

Eunectes notaeus

ExpertMay need a permitCITES – buy captive-bredVery large adult

The yellow anaconda is a expert-level boa from Paraguay, Bolivia, Brazil, Argentina. Adults reach 250–400 cm and live 20–30 years in captivity. Needs a large pool and dry land; check local bylaws first. Solitary.

  • Enclosure 300 × 120 × 90 cm
  • Temp Warm 30–32°C, water 26–28°C
  • Humidity 70–90%

How much does a yellow anaconda cost in Canada?

Animal$400–1000Typical captive-bred price
Bioactive enclosure$4040–7170Enclosure $3000–5670 · equipment $190–420 · bioactive supplies ≈ $910
Yearly upkeep$800–1500Food, supplements, bulbs, power, vet fund
First year total$5240–9670All prices CAD, estimates

Yellow anaconda quick facts

Skill level
Expert
Adult size
250–400 cm
Lifespan
20–30 years
Activity
Nocturnal
Native range
Paraguay, Bolivia, Brazil, Argentina
Minimum enclosure
300 × 120 × 90 cm (118 × 47 × 35 in, ≈ 856 US gal)
Housing
Best kept alone.
Temperature
Warm 30–32°C, water 26–28°C
Humidity
70–90%
UVB
Recommended
Diet
Carnivore – frozen/thawed rats, rabbits
Bioactive style
Semi-aquatic (paludarium)

Yellow anaconda enclosure & bioactive setup

Give one adult at least 300 × 120 × 90 cm (118 × 47 × 35 inches). Best kept alone. This species suits a semi-aquatic (paludarium) bioactive build.

  1. Leaf litter2 cm
  2. Jurassic ABG Terrarium Mix15 cm
  3. Drainage – clay bio balls4 cm

Quantities assume about half the floor is land. The water half needs a filter and regular partial water changes.

Temperature: Warm 30–32°C, water 26–28°C. Humidity: 70–90%. UVB: Recommended.

Some Canadian provinces and many municipalities restrict or ban this species. Check your local bylaws and any provincial permit rules before buying.

What does a yellow anaconda eat?

Carnivore – frozen/thawed rats, rabbits. Feed one appropriately sized prey item every 14–21 days.

Handling, temperament & health

Often defensive and bites readily.

Health watch: Watch for skin infections and obesity.

Cleaning & maintenance schedule

Daily

  • Check water and air temperature; feed according to species.

Weekly

  • Change 20–30% of the water with dechlorinated water.
  • Rinse filter sponge in old tank water (never tap water) as needed.

Monthly

  • Top up leaf litter on land; prune plants at the waterline.

Yearly

  • Service the pump/filter fully.

Recommended for a yellow anaconda bioactive

Quantities are for one minimum-size enclosure (300 × 120 × 90 cm).

Yellow anaconda FAQ

Is the yellow anaconda good for beginners?

No – the yellow anaconda is a specialist animal for expert keepers only. Often defensive and bites readily.

What size enclosure does a yellow anaconda need?

At least 300 × 120 × 90 cm (about 118 × 47 × 35 inches, roughly 856 US gallons) for one adult. Best kept alone.

How much does a yellow anaconda cost in Canada?

Typically $400–1000 CAD to buy, about $4040–7170 CAD for a complete bioactive enclosure, and $800–1500 CAD a year to keep.

What temperature and humidity does a yellow anaconda need?

Temperature: Warm 30–32°C, water 26–28°C. Humidity: 70–90%.

What does a yellow anaconda eat?

Carnivore – frozen/thawed rats, rabbits. Feed one appropriately sized prey item every 14–21 days.

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This care sheet is general guidance from One Bioactive, not veterinary advice. Needs vary with age, locality and individual animals – confirm with your breeder and an exotics vet. Prices are typical Canadian ranges in CAD and change over time.