By Sheetal Kumari | February 10, 2026
A giant female reticulated python discovered in Sulawesi, Indonesia, has rewritten wildlife records and stunned scientists worldwide.
Image: Guinness World RecordsI
Guinness World Records confirmed her length at 7.22 metres on 18 January, making her the longest wild snake ever reliably documented.
Image: Guinness World RecordsI
Named Ibu Baron, meaning The Baroness, she was found in the Maros region after local rumours reached conservation experts.
Image: Guinness World RecordsI
The python weighed 96.5 kilograms, measured using rice scales, and had not eaten recently. After feeding, she may exceed 100 kilograms.
Image: Guinness World RecordsI
Experts estimate her relaxed length could reach 7.9 metres, but anaesthesia was avoided due to serious risks to the animal.
Image: Guinness World RecordsI
The assessment was led by licensed snake handler Diaz Nugraha, with documentation support from explorer Radu Frentiu and conservation researchers.
Image: Guinness World RecordsI
Habitat loss and poaching force giant pythons into villages, increasing human-wildlife conflict and leading to frequent killings near settlements.
Image: Guinness World RecordsI
The previous verified record was 6.95 metres in Borneo in 1999. Larger historical claims exist, but lack scientific measurement.
Image: Guinness World RecordsI
Now protected in a private sanctuary, Ibu Baron symbolizes conservation hope, scientific credibility, and the urgent need to protect Indonesia’s forests.
Image: Guinness World RecordsI