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New Giant Green Anaconda Discovered in South America

1/12/2026

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Summary

Story summary

In 2024, scientists identified a new northern green anaconda (Eunectes akayama), from a 2022 South American expedition guided by Waorani and featured in National Geographic's Pole to Pole with actor Will Smith.
The expedition found a female green anaconda measuring 16 to 17 feet.
Researchers collected scale samples to analyze pollutants and genetics.
Pole to Pole with Will Smith premieres January 13, 2026, on Disney+.

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Story summary

In 2024, scientists identified a new northern green anaconda (Eunectes akayama), from a 2022 South American expedition guided by Waorani and featured in National Geographic's Pole to Pole with actor Will Smith.
The expedition found a female green anaconda measuring 16 to 17 feet.
Researchers collected scale samples to analyze pollutants and genetics.
Pole to Pole with Will Smith premieres January 13, 2026, on Disney+.