The largest snakes are found in the boa family, and the largest of these is the anaconda or water boa. The anaconda lives throughout tropical South America, east of the Andes, mainly in the Amazon and Orinoco basins, and in the Guianas. It extends to Trinidad. The species is variable in color and size giving rise to sub-specific names. Black patches on the anaconda's back combine with dull background color to blend in with the thick, wet vegetation of its habitat.
Water boa is a great alternative name for the anaconda, the most aquatic of the boas.
It is never found far from water. Swamps are a favorite place. Nocturnal in habit, the anaconda lie up during the day in shallow waters or sunbathe on a low branch, usually over water. Anacondas usually lie in wait by the waters edge waiting for its prey to come down to the waters edge to drink. Striking quickly with the head grabbing the unlucky prey and dragging it underwater so that it drowns.