Pune, India – New research has uncovered evidence of a massive snake that once existed in western India, with fossilized vertebrae suggesting a length between 36 and 50 feet. This discovery surpasses the known length of any snake by up to eight feet and is nearly 17 feet longer than the largest living snake today. The findings were detailed in a Scientific Reports article published on April 18.
Dubbed “Vasuki indicus” by researchers, this colossal snake is believed to have roamed the Earth approximately 47 million years ago. According to Debajit Datta, a study co-author at the Indian Institute of Technology Roorkee, the snake likely preyed by constriction and moved slowly as an ambush predator.
The researchers estimated the size of Vasuki indicus by comparing the fossilized vertebrae to those of living snakes. While claims of giant snakes have been reported worldwide, such instances are often dismissed as hoaxes. In Hindu mythology, Vasuki is also the name of a mythical snake king that wraps around the neck of the deity Shiva.
Experts suggest that snakes similar in size to Vasuki indicus have been part of the folklore of various cultures, with legends of giant serpents like the “Yacumama” and “Sachamama” in South America, rumored to be around 100 feet long. The existence of such creatures is often associated with cryptozoology, the study of cryptids, which are creatures claimed to exist but lack conclusive evidence.
Though reports of encounters with massive snakes exist, such as the account from Belgian Air Force Colonel Remy Van Lierde, in which he described a 50-foot snake lunging at his helicopter in 1959, these claims are often met with skepticism. Despite photos and videos circulating on social media, their authenticity is frequently disputed.
In summary, the discovery of Vasuki indicus sheds light on the potential existence of giant snakes in ancient times, sparking fascination and curiosity about the untold mysteries of our planet’s past. These findings contribute to the rich tapestry of mythical creatures that have intrigued generations across different cultures.