The Longest Venomous Snake and the Second Heaviest Snake Species in the World Are Both Native to Hong Kong

If you enjoy hiking in one of the numerous country parks in Hong Kong, chances are you've already spotted a snake or two. In fact, Hong Kong is home to 52 species of snakes, of which 46 are land snakes.

However, while the moderately sized White-Lipped Viper, also known as the Bamboo Viper, accounts for 90% of the 100 snakebites recorded each year in Hong Kong, the city is also home to some of the longest and largest snakes in the world.

Indeed, the longest venomous snake in the world, the King Cobra, is native to Hong Kong. It has been found throughout the territory, including Hong Kong Island. Although extremely dangerous, sightings of the King Cobra are very rare in Hong Kong.

Moreover, Hong Kong is also home to one of the largest snakes overall. The Burmese Python, averaging 4.9 meters (16 feet) in length and weighing between 14 and 75 kg (30 to 165 pounds), is the second heaviest snake in the world and the heaviest snake in Asia. In Hong Kong, the largest Burmese Python ever caught was released in Sai Kung in 2022, measuring 4.89 meters (16 feet) and weighing 32 kg (70.5 pounds).

Both species are listed as Vulnerable on the IUCN Red List and are protected in Hong Kong.