A 13-meter fossil snake, Titanoboa cerrejonensis, was found in Colombia, offering clues about Earth's ancient climate. Another African snake can swallow eggs larger than itself.
Fossil of giant snake found in Colombia
A fossil of a giant snake, measuring thirteen meters, was discovered in a coal mine in Colombia. The snake, named Titanoboa cerrejonensis, is one of the largest known snakes in history.Snake lived 60 million years ago
Titanoboa cerrejonensis lived approximately 60 million years ago, during the Paleocene epoch. Scientists believe it preyed on crocodiles and other large animals of that time.Snake's size hints at ancient climate
Researchers suggest that the enormous size of Titanoboa cerrejonensis indicates that the climate during its time was extremely hot. This finding helps scientists understand past climate conditions and their effects on animal life.African snake studies egg-swallowing
Separately, researchers from the University of Cincinnati studied Dasypeltis gansi, an African snake known for its ability to swallow the largest eggs relative to its body size. This snake has a unique method of consuming eggs.Snake uses spine to break eggs
The study, led by Bruce Jayne from the University of Cincinnati, found that Dasypeltis gansi twists its spine to break the eggs it swallows. After consuming the eggs, the snake expels the shell remnants.
