Coiled peacefully in spacious and artfully decorated cages are such species as the giant Green Anaconda, the world's largest snake, which can reach an estimated maximum length of over 37 feet, and the Retriculated Python which rivals the Anaconda in size and occasionally preys on deer. Many poisonous varieties are also on display including the King Cobra, which may reach 18 feet in length, and is considered by some to be the most intelligent snake. Rattlesnakes, deadly African and Asian vipers, bizarre tree snakes from Madagascar, and lemon yellow Eyelash Vipers are but a few of the many specimens to be observed. This exhibit is considered by many to be one of the best reptile houses in any zoological park. There are over 2600 species of snakes in the world today, and being the closest relatives to lizards, are found on every continent of the globe with the exception of Antarctica.
Snakes generally are carnivores with diets consisting of reptiles, amphibians, birds, and mammals.
A snake's diet has also been known to change over time, varying with the age of the snake itself. Snakes occupy a wide range of habitats. Regions such as mountains, oceans, deserts, rivers, swamps and marshes, tropical rainforests, plains and savannas are home to over 2600 species of snakes in the world today. Some snakes are tree-dwelling, some live in swamps, Blindsnakes live underground while others live in the water. Breeding varies by species.