Largest ever captured python dies in Malaysia days after being found
The huge reptile may have briefly stolen the world record, but was not measured by the official body before it died
Your support helps us to tell the story
From reproductive rights to climate change to Big Tech, The Independent is on the ground when the story is developing. Whether it's investigating the financials of Elon Musk's pro-Trump PAC or producing our latest documentary, 'The A Word', which shines a light on the American women fighting for reproductive rights, we know how important it is to parse out the facts from the messaging.
At such a critical moment in US history, we need reporters on the ground. Your donation allows us to keep sending journalists to speak to both sides of the story.
The Independent is trusted by Americans across the entire political spectrum. And unlike many other quality news outlets, we choose not to lock Americans out of our reporting and analysis with paywalls. We believe quality journalism should be available to everyone, paid for by those who can afford it.
Your support makes all the difference.A giant python thought to be the longest ever recorded has died just days after being placed in captivity, Malaysian officials have confirmed.
The reticulated python, estimated to be eight metres (26ft) long, was found on a construction site on Penang island last week.
But according to Herme Herisyam, chief of operations for Penang’s Civil Department, the snake died three days later after giving birth.
The Guinness Book of World Records currently names the world’s longest snake to be kept in captivity as Medusa, also a reticulated python, at 7.67 metres (25ft 2 in) long.
Medusa lives at The Edge of Hell Haunted House in Kansas City, US, where she is put on show.
At 250kg – over 90kg heavier than Medusa, it is thought that the Malaysian python could have briefly stolen the world record, but it is yet to be measured by the official Guinness World Records body.
Malaysia’s Civil Defence Department, the team that caught the snake, said it took them 30 minutes to trap the dangerous reptile. It was due to be transferred to the government's Department of Wildlife before it died.
Subscribe to Independent Premium to bookmark this article
Want to bookmark your favourite articles and stories to read or reference later? Start your Independent Premium subscription today.
Join our commenting forum
Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies
Comments