Bhubaneswar: In a major boost to reptile conservation efforts, Nandankanan Zoological Park has recorded the birth of 11 yellow anacondas (Eunectes notaeus) on July 4. The hatchlings were born in the zoo’s Reptile Park from the second breeding pair of snakes.

This marks the second successful breeding event within a week at the zoo. Just days earlier, on June 29, seven yellow anaconda hatchlings were born from the first breeding pair.

With the latest addition, the zoo now houses a total of 25 yellow anacondas—comprising two adult males, two adult females, three sub-adults, and 18 juveniles.

The parent snakes involved in the recent birth were acquired from the Madras Crocodile Bank Trust in October 2019. Zoo officials described the back-to-back successful breedings as a reflection of Nandankanan’s effective scientific management and dedication to reptile conservation.