Snakes have fascinated and terrified people for centuries. These remarkable reptiles come in many shapes and sizes, but some of them stand out for their sheer length and weight. In this article, we’ll explore the top 10 biggest snakes in the world in 2025, along with an ancient giant that once roamed the earth.
Average Length: 15–20 feet
Maximum Recorded Length: Over 32 feet
Weight: Up to 350 pounds
The reticulated python holds the record as the longest snake in the world. Found in Southeast Asia, it is known for its intricate patterns and impressive strength. Despite its size, this non-venomous snake relies on constriction to subdue its prey. It can consume animals as large as deer and even has a history of attacking humans in rare cases.
Average Length: 15–17 feet
Maximum Recorded Length: 30 feet
Weight: Over 500 pounds
The green anaconda is the heaviest snake on the planet. Native to South America’s swamps and rivers, this muscular predator ambushes prey by dragging it underwater and suffocating it. Despite its bulk, the anaconda is an expert swimmer and spends most of its life in the water.
Average Length: 12–18 feet
Maximum Recorded Length: 23 feet
Weight: Up to 400 pounds
Burmese pythons are large, powerful snakes native to Southeast Asia. Due to their adaptability, they have established invasive populations in places like Florida, where they disrupt local ecosystems. With their strong bodies and keen hunting skills, they can consume a wide variety of prey, including alligators.
Average Length: 10–16 feet
Maximum Recorded Length: Over 20 feet
Weight: Up to 250 pounds
The African rock python is one of the largest snakes in Africa. This aggressive constrictor preys on animals such as antelope, crocodiles, and even leopards. Known for its fierce nature, it doesn’t hesitate to defend itself when threatened.
Average Length: 10–15 feet
Maximum Recorded Length: 20 feet
Weight: Up to 200 pounds
Found in the forests and grasslands of India and surrounding regions, the Indian python is a close relative of the Burmese python. Though not as aggressive as some other large snakes, it is still a formidable predator that relies on constriction to overpower its prey.
Average Length: 10–15 feet
Maximum Recorded Length: 25 feet
Weight: Up to 200 pounds
Also known as the scrub python, the amethystine python is native to Australia and New Guinea. Its name comes from the shimmering, amethyst-like scales that reflect light. This agile climber is known to hunt birds, mammals, and reptiles.
Average Length: 8–12 feet
Maximum Recorded Length: 14 feet
Weight: Up to 100 pounds
A well-known species among reptile enthusiasts, the boa constrictor is a powerful predator found in Central and South America. Though not as large as anacondas or pythons, it is an impressive hunter that uses constriction to suffocate prey.
Average Length: 10–14 feet
Maximum Recorded Length: 15 feet
Weight: Up to 130 pounds
A smaller relative of the green anaconda, the yellow anaconda is found in South America’s swamps and marshes. Though not as bulky, it is still an efficient hunter that preys on birds, fish, and mammals.
Average Length: 10–13 feet
Maximum Recorded Length: 19 feet
Weight: Up to 20 pounds
The king cobra is the longest venomous snake in the world. Unlike constrictors, it relies on potent neurotoxic venom to take down prey. Known for its intelligence and ability to stand tall when threatened, this snake is a formidable predator in the forests of South and Southeast Asia.
Average Length: 8–12 feet
Maximum Recorded Length: 14 feet
Weight: Up to 4 pounds
The black mamba is Africa’s deadliest snake. Though not the biggest on this list, it is the fastest and most dangerous. Its speed, aggressive nature, and highly toxic venom make it one of the most feared reptiles on the planet.
Estimated Length: 42–47 feet
Estimated Weight: Over 2,500 pounds
Long before today’s giants, a true monster roamed the earth—Titanoboa. Fossils discovered in Colombia suggest that this prehistoric snake was the largest ever to exist. Living around 60 million years ago, it likely fed on crocodiles and large fish in its swampy habitat.
The size of a snake depends on several factors:
