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This quarter-tonne python found on a Malaysian building site could be largest snake ever measured

Estimates claim the reticulated python was eight metres long

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Members of Malaysia’s Civil Defence Force hold the reticulated python. Photo: EPA
The Guardian

A huge python found on a construction site in Malaysia could take the record for the longest snake ever to be caught, with initial estimates at eight metres.

The reticulated python – a species found in south-east Asia and widely considered as the longest reptile species – was spotted where a flyover was being built in Paya Terubong, a district on the island and tourist haven of Penang.

The python was caught near a flyover in Penang. Photo: EPA
The python was caught near a flyover in Penang. Photo: EPA
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Herme Herisyam, an official with Malaysian department that caught the snake, said that workers from the construction site called the emergency services on Thursday and authorities took 30 minutes to trap the snake.

“It is eight metres in length and weighs about 250kg,” he said by phone.

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It emerged later on Monday that the python died on Sunday after giving birth.

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