Fossilized Snake the size of a bus.

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Scientists have discovered the fossilized remains of an enormous snake, estimated to be the largest ever, measuring up to 13 meters (42.7 feet) long and weighing approximately 1.135 tonnes. This boa-like creature lived in the tropical rainforests of present-day Colombia around 60 million years ago, during a period when global temperatures were significantly higher. The findings highlight the extraordinary diversity of prehistoric life, with the snake's size being comparable to a bus and its diet likely including crocodiles. The discussion also touches on the fascinating nature of such ancient creatures, emphasizing a sense of relief that they are no longer alive today.
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Life is varied, strange and wonderful!

PARIS (AFP) - Stunned scientists have found the fossilised remains of the world's greatest snake -- a record-busting serpent that was as long as a bus and snacked on crocodiles.


The boa-like behemoth ruled the tropical rainforests of what is now Colombia some 60 million years ago, at a time when the world was far hotter than now, they report in a study released on Wednesday.

The size of the snake's vertebrae suggest the beast weighed some 1.135 tonnes, in a range of 730 kilos (1,600 pounds) to 2.03 tonnes.

And it measured 13 metres (42.7 feet) from nose to tail, in a range of 10.64-15 metres (34.6-48.75 feet), they estimate.

http://ca.news.yahoo.com/s/afp/090204/top_news/science_palaeontology_animals_snake_offbeat_1
 
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