Researchers spot world's largest living anaconda species in Amazon jungle – how long is it?

Scientists Discover Giant Anaconda Species in Remote Amazon. (Image: Canva)

A team of researchers exploring the Amazon made a stunning discovery. They found a new species of giant anaconda in Ecuador’s dense rainforest.

Scientists on a National Geographic expedition uncovered a new anaconda species. The team, led by Professor Bryan Fry, found the snake in the Bameno region. This area lies in Baihuaeri Waorani Territory, a remote jungle rarely explored.

Named the northern green anaconda (Eunectes akayima), the snake may grow over 20 feet long. This surpasses previous records for anacondas. The discovery happened while filming Pole to Pole with Will Smith.

Tracking the Giant Serpent
For 10 days, scientists and Waorani hunters searched the jungle. The local community believes these anacondas are the world’s largest. The team followed river systems by canoe, looking for the legendary snake.

They captured multiple specimens, including one measuring 20.7 feet. Some Waorani claim anacondas in the region grow beyond 24 feet. If true, this would make them the biggest snakes ever recorded.

A team of scientists has discovered a new species of green anaconda in the Amazon rain forest.Prof. Freek Vonk has recorded a video of a 26-feet-long green anaconda, believed to be the biggest snake in the world.pic.twitter.com/mZyF7nX3a6

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Massimo (@Rainmaker1973) February 21, 2025

Hidden Giants in the Amazon
Scientists struggled through dense rainforest to track the creatures. The anacondas were spotted in shallow waters, waiting for prey. Experts studied several specimens, confirming the species’ uniqueness.

This discovery raises questions about what else remains hidden. Could even larger anacondas exist in the vast Amazon? Researchers say the jungle still holds many secrets yet to be uncovered.