Recently, scientists discovered the existence of giant red leeches in Indonesia. They are scientifically named Mimobdella buettikoferi.

Scientists confirm that they are the largest leech species in the world. This event attracted strong attention from public opinion. They are called Kinabalu red leeches by locals because this species has a very distinctive red or orange color, different from their relatives.

Kinabalu giant red leech is endemic to the Kinabalu forest, Borneo, Indonesia, where the altitude is from 2500 – 3000m. Unlike their relatives, which are usually only about 3cm – 7cm long and live in water and swampy places, Kinabalu leeches live on land.

Kinabalu red leeches have a length of 30cm-40cm, even up to 1m. Anyone who encounters them is extremely frightened and haunted. They often reside under leaf litter and damp cliffs. After every heavy rain, Kinabalu red leeches crawl out of their shelters to feed.

Although looking at them is scary, Kinabalu leeches are harmless to humans. They do not suck the blood of animals like their relatives. Kinabalu leeches survive by eating giant green earthworms.

With a length of about 30cm, Kinabalu leeches can eat a green worm nearly 3 times the length of their body. This is something extremely special in the animal world. The giant red leech “eats” its prey like a python.

Currently, there is very little information about giant leeches. Scientists are trying to observe and record to soon have more information about this special leech species.