A video captured on the afternoon of May 7, 2025, has taken Brazil by storm, especially in the northeastern state of Piauí. The footage, recorded from an aircraft flying over Floriano, apparently shows a gigantic anaconda—estimated to be around 50 meters long—gliding through the waters of the Parnaíba River. The astonishing clip has gone viral on social media, sparking both amazement and skepticism.
The video shows a massive, dark figure moving rhythmically through the river, creating ripples that suggest immense size and strength. Witnesses aboard the plane described the moment as “unreal,” saying it felt like something straight out of a movie
Despite the viral attention, scientists are approaching the claim with caution. Dr. Helena Moreira, a biologist at the Federal University of Piauí, expressed doubts: “A 50-meter-long anaconda defies all known biological records. The largest anaconda ever documented was approximately 10 meters
She added that the phenomenon may be the result of a visual illusion, a trick of perspective from the aerial view, or possibly even a digitally altered video. Still, some experts agree that further investigation is warranted before jumping to conclusion
The Brazilian Ministry of Environment, along with local authorities in Floriano, has announced plans to officially review and analyze the video. They aim to determine whether the footage is authentic or part of a hoax. There is also talk of launching a field search along the Parnaíba River to look for physical evidence of such a creature.
While the authenticity of the video is still under scrutiny, the footage has ignited a flurry of online debate. Some believe it could be one of the largest snakes ever recorded, while others suggest the possibility of digital manipulation or optical illusion.
