Latest news with #ReticulatedPython
Time of India
4 days ago
- Science
- Time of India
7 largest snakes to have ever existed on Earth
Recent fossil discoveries in India have revealed Vasuki indicus, potentially the largest snake ever, reaching 50 feet. This land-dwelling constrictor lived 47 million years ago. The article highlights other massive prehistoric snakes like Titanoboa and Gigantophis, alongside modern giants such as the Green Anaconda and Reticulated Python, showcasing the incredible scale and diversity of these reptiles throughout history. Snakes have always been a fascinating area of interest to us for centuries, often igniting fear for their slithering characteristics. Whether written about in ancient mythology, modern-day documentaries, these slithering reptiles have inspired innumerable tales. Some snakes have grown to astonishing sizes, their sheer scale defying belief. Over the millennia, snakes have evolved into diverse species — some tiny and harmless, others large enough to take down deer, crocodiles, and even early elephant ancestors. While most modern-day snakes are modest in size, fossil evidence and rare sightings have revealed giants that could wrap around a car — or even a small house. These snakes aren't just long; they're heavy, muscular, and capable of exerting crushing force beyond human comprehension. Here are seven of the biggest snakes to ever slither across land or sea, among these, some still live today! Vasuki indicus The fossils of this snake were discovered in India in 2024. Vasuki indicus is possibly the largest snake ever. Estimated to reach up to 50 feet in length, it lived around 47 million years ago. Named after the God Shiva's serpent king in Hindu mythology, it was a land-dwelling predator that likely killed its prey through constriction. Titanoboa cerrejonensis Titanoboa, once the biggest snake known to science, stretched an estimated 42.7 feet long and weighed over 2,500 pounds. by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like Giá vàng đang tăng mạnh trong năm 2025 — Các nhà giao dịch thông minh đã tham gia IC Markets Tìm hiểu thêm Undo This massive constrictor roamed South America's rainforests 60 million years ago, feeding on crocodiles and large fish. Its fossils were discovered in Colombia's Cerrejón Formation in the early 2000s. Palaeophis colossaeus This ancient sea snake swam through prehistoric oceans covering North Africa around 100 million years ago. Measuring up to 39 feet, it is the longest known marine snake. Its size was so massive that researchers believe it could have consumed small whales. Only partial fossils have been found to date. Gigantophis garstini Gigantophis garstini roamed in and around Egypt 40 million years ago and grew between 23 to 32 feet long. It was a powerful constrictor capable of swallowing early elephant relatives whole. For nearly a century, it held the record as the largest snake ever known, until even bigger species were later discovered. Green anaconda Native to the Amazon, the green anaconda may not be the longest, but it is the heaviest snake alive today. Growing up to 33 feet long and weighing up to 550 pounds, these water-loving predators use their bulk to overpower prey like capybaras, caimans, and even deer through immense force. Reticulated python The reticulated python, commonly found in Southeast Asia, is the world's longest snake. Though some unverified reports claim lengths over 32 feet, verified snake individuals still reach impressive sizes of over 25 feet. Known for their diamond-like patterns, these pythons are powerful constrictors and occasionally pose a threat to humans. Indian python Native to South Asia, the Indian python can reach lengths of nearly 21 feet and weigh as much as 220 pounds. Known for their perfect preying skills and strength, these snakes hunt at night using heat-sensing pits on their faces. They are close relatives of the Burmese python and blend easily into forest terrain.
The Sun
15-06-2025
- General
- The Sun
Urgent warning as 18ft long ‘pet' PYTHON on the loose in UK countryside after being dumped by its owner
ONE of the world's longest snakes is at large — after five were illegally dumped by their owner in the countryside. The 18ft pythons are believed to have been kept as pets before being abandoned. Four were recaptured by police but they are still hunting for the missing reptile. Dog owners are being warned to keep pets on leads in the Twigmoor and Cleatham areas of rural Lincolnshire where the reticulated pythons were found. Humberside Police say the snakes will attack only to defend themselves but can 'squeeze the life' out of their prey. A spokesman said: 'So far four snakes have been captured by colleagues who work with exotic animals. 'They are believed to be Reticulated Pythons. We suspect that one snake may currently still be out in the wild. 'The reticulated Python is the longest species on earth. It is a non venomous constrictor snake. In the wild, they will kill their prey by biting it and then coiling around it to literally squeeze the life out of it. 'In the pet trade, these come in many colours. An 18ft Snake found at Manton is a wild type, but the other three are a mixture of two Albinos and what we think is a Pied Golden Child Morph. 'In the event that you find one in the wild in the UK, please call police immediately. DO NOT try to catch it yourself, keep an eye on it and give a What3Words location to the police so it can be assessed by an expert and collected appropriately. 'We would advise keeping dogs on a lead in the areas where these snakes were found. 'These Snakes will not attack you. They will only try to defend themselves if they feel threated. We suspect that the snakes that have been dumped were pets and this will make them less likely to bite. 'Please if you have a pet that you can no longer keep for whatever reason, please take it to an exotic animal shop or animal rescue. DO NOT release them into the wild. 'If you have any information on the release of these snakes please contact Humberside Police Rural Task Force at RTF@ or call 101 quoting investigation reference 25000081788."
Indian Express
27-05-2025
- Science
- Indian Express
King cobra vs python: Here's who really rules the wild
A clash of giants sometimes unfolds in South and Southeast Asia's dense jungles and steamy forests—the King Cobra and the Python. Both are among the most feared reptiles on Earth, but which of these two slithering powerhouses would win in a face-off? Let's settle this nature showdown once and for all—with curiosity, science, and a hint of wild imagination. Regarding venomous snakes, the King Cobra truly lives up to its name. Reaching 18 feet, it's the longest venomous snake in the world. But it's not just about size—this snake is fast, focused, and terrifyingly efficient. King Cobras aren't content with mice and frogs—they often hunt other snakes, including smaller pythons. That's right, it's a snake that eats other snakes. Here's why the King Cobra is feared: On the other hand, the python is all about raw power. Most pythons don't bother with venom because they have something just as deadly: pure muscle. A fully grown Reticulated Python can reach 23 feet, wrapping around prey with bone-crushing pressure. They're ambush predators—quiet, patient, and deadly when the moment's right. What makes pythons formidable: So what happens when these two meet in the wild? It does happen occasionally—and yes, there have been documented fights. The outcome usually depends on who makes the first move. If the King Cobra strikes first and lands a good bite, its venom works fast, shutting down the python's nervous system. Game over. But if the Python manages to sneak up and coil around the cobra before it can bite—well, the tables can turn quickly. In most recorded encounters, the King Cobra has the upper hand, thanks to its speed, venom, and precise strikes. But it's not always a one-snake race. It depends on what you mean by 'dangerous.' To humans? That's clearly the King Cobra—its venom is no joke. In terms of strength? The Python wins with brute force. In a direct fight? More often than not, the King Cobra slithers away victorious. Still, in nature, nothing is ever guaranteed. Both snakes are dangerous in their own way—and both command a healthy dose of respect.
