Annie the anaconda is now a Guinness World Records holder

The Montecasino Bird Gardens in Fourways recently celebrated a Guinness World Records achievement as they are home to the oldest living snake in captivity.

Annie, an anaconda, was born on June 1, 1983. She weighs 40kg and measures more than 4m long, Annie is described as a ‘docile snake’ according to reptile curator at the bird gardens, Jessica Joubert.

While no official documentation has been received yet, Joubert said it would be on display by her enclosure to bring awareness of her record. “We were very excited to learn that Annie has been inducted into the Guinness World Records,” she said.

“One always has to remember her size and the power that comes with it. She does allow us to freely work in her enclosure and does not show any signs of distress or being uncomfortable while we are around her.”

As June 1 was Annie’s 37th birthday, Joubert said a big celebration had been planned, especially as this would mark her being announced as a world record holder. However, no public celebrations could take place due to the country being placed on lockdown Level 4.

“Marketing wanted to organise a little party/celebration for her in our amphitheatre but due to Covid we decided it would not be responsible from our side to encourage people to gather.

“We then decided to put up decals and signs by her enclosure so people visiting the park would see it is her birthday month and they would be able to pose for selfies with all the signs with Annie in her enclosure.”

Senior publicist at Guinness World Records, Jessica Dawes confirmed Annie is indeed the oldest living snake in captivity.