Despite many claims and widely circulated photo-shopped proofs of monster serpents, the actual record in length is 28.5 feet. A captive reticulated python was so measured at the Pittsburgh Zoo in the 1950s. No other claims for length record have been substantiated with actual measurements, despite a reward once offered by the New York Zoological society for $50,000 for such evidence.
The record for weight is held by the anaconda species in general. I actually found no specific weight record (in my cursory search) but estimates for the species range from 330- 550 lbs.
Both are constrictors and not venomous. The reticulated python inhabits Southeastern Asia, while the anaconda hails from South America. Similar constrictors (the boa) also populate South America, Africa and Australia (other python species).
Fossils of the largest ever have popped up recently, for an animal measuring and estimated 43ft in length.
For perspective:
A bull snake (5ft)- the largest of my territory in Iowa:
2 comments:
Amazing that you take the time to lay out the dimensions for us. Suffice it to say that's a large snake!!
Mother!
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