A massive female reticulated python discovered in Indonesia’s Sulawesi island has been recognised by Guinness World Records (GWR) as the longest wild snake ever formally measured, stretching 7.22 metres from head to tail.
The reptile, named Ibu Baron or ‘The Baroness’, was found in the Maros region in late 2025 and had its length officially verified on Jan 18 following detailed documentation reviewed by GWR.
According to the organisation, the python’s extraordinary size would allow it to span almost the entire width of a standard FIFA football goal. Its length has also been likened to approximately six-and-a-half shopping trolleys arranged in a straight line.
GWR noted that the snake’s actual length could potentially be longer, as reptiles tend to extend further when their muscles are completely relaxed under anaesthesia. However, the group emphasised that animals should only be sedated for essential medical or safety purposes, and no such procedure was carried out solely for measurement.
The python’s survival has been partly attributed to Indonesian conservationist Budi Purwanto, who intervened soon after the animal’s discovery in December 2025. His swift action ensured that the snake was protected from harm and transferred into safe care.
The record-setting measurement was conducted by licensed snake handler and wildlife rescuer Diaz Nugraha from Kalimantan, alongside explorer and natural-history photographer Radu Frentiu, who has lived in Bali for over two decades. Both had travelled to Sulawesi after hearing reports of an unusually large serpent in the region.
Details of the discovery were later communicated to Guinness World Records through George Beccaloni, Director of the Wallace Correspondence Project, who facilitated the verification process.
Reticulated pythons (Malayopython reticulatus) are known as the world’s longest snake species and are commonly found across Southeast Asia. The recognition of Ibu Baron highlights both the remarkable biodiversity of Indonesia’s rainforests and the importance of conservation efforts in safeguarding large wildlife species.
-THE MALAYSIA VOICE
