Hawaii is known for its beautiful beaches, lush forests, and unique wildlife. However, not all of the creatures that call Hawaii home are harmless. In fact, Hawaii is home to some of the largest and most dangerous snakes in the world.
In this article, we will explore the top four largest and most dangerous snakes in Hawaii that visitors should be aware of this summer. Knowing how to identify and avoid these snakes can help ensure a safe and enjoyable trip to the beautiful islands of Hawaii.
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Top 4 Largest And Most Dangerous Snakes In Hawaii This Summer
Boa constrictors
Boa constrictors are non-venomous snakes that are native to Central and South America. They can grow up to 12 feet long and their diet usually consists of rats and other small animals. Unfortunately, they have no natural predators in Hawaii and pose a serious threat to the state’s ecosystem.
In recent years, there have been several reports of boa constrictors being found on cargo ships headed to Honolulu. It’s important for visitors to Hawaii to be aware of the potential presence of these snakes and to take proper precautions to avoid encountering them.
Ball pythons
Ball pythons are non-venomous snakes that are native to Africa. They are popular pets due to their docile nature and relatively small size, but they can grow up to 6 feet long. Unfortunately, they are also invasive species in Hawaii and pose a threat to the state’s ecosystem.
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In January 2023, a live 28-inch ball python was found in Kahaluu on Oahu and turned in to the Honolulu Zoo under the state’s Amnesty Program.
Ball pythons typically consume small mammals, which can have a negative impact on Hawaii’s native wildlife. Visitors to Hawaii should be aware of the potential presence of ball pythons and take proper precautions to avoid encountering them.
Brown tree snakes
The brown tree snake (Boiga irregularis) is an invasive species native to eastern and northern coastal Australia, eastern Indonesia, Papua New Guinea, and many islands in northwestern Melanesia. Unfortunately, the brown tree snake is responsible for extirpating the majority of the native bird population in Guam and is considered a serious pest in Hawaii.
The brown tree snake preys upon birds, lizards, bats, and mice and other small rodents in its native range. In Hawaii, the population of brown tree snakes was once around 50 snakes per acre on Guam, but it is now estimated to be around 10-21 brown tree snakes per acre.
Brown tree snakes are mildly venomous, but they are not considered dangerous to adult humans. However, young children can have severe reactions to their venom.
Visitors to Hawaii should be aware of the potential presence of brown tree snakes and take proper precautions to avoid encountering them.
Yellow-bellied sea snakes
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The yellow-bellied sea snake (Hydrophis platurus) is a venomous species of snake from the subfamily Hydrophiinae (the sea snakes) found in tropical oceanic waters around the world except for the Atlantic Ocean. It is the most widely distributed snake in the world and is completely pelagic, meaning it lives its whole life at sea.
The yellow-bellied sea snake has a distinctive bicolor pattern with a yellow underbelly and brown back, making it easily distinguishable from other sea snake species.
While it is considered a pelagic species, it is occasionally carried into shallow water close to shore, or may even be beached during periods of strong winds. Since yellow-bellied sea snakes are only rarely found close to shore, they pose less of a danger than inshore species of the western Pacific and Indian Oceans.
However, it’s important to note that the yellow-bellied sea snake is venomous. Visitors to Hawaii should be aware of the potential presence of yellow-bellied sea snakes and take proper precautions to avoid encountering them.
FAQS
1. Are there any venomous snakes in Hawaii?
No, there are no venomous snakes native to Hawaii. However, the yellow-bellied sea snake, which is venomous, can occasionally be found in shallow waters close to shore.
2. What are the top four largest and most dangerous snakes in Hawaii?
According to, the top four largest and most dangerous snakes in Hawaii are boa constrictors, ball pythons, brown tree snakes, and yellow-bellied sea snakes.
3. What should I do if I encounter one of these snakes?
If you encounter one of these snakes, it’s important to stay calm and keep your distance. Do not attempt to handle or capture the snake yourself. Instead, contact local authorities or a professional snake removal service for assistance.
4. Can these snakes be kept as pets in Hawaii?
No, it is illegal to keep any species of snake as a pet in Hawaii.
5. What other potential dangers should I be aware of in Hawaii?
In addition to snakes, visitors to Hawaii should be aware of other potential dangers such as sharks, jellyfish, and aggressive wild boars. It’s important to take proper precautions and respect local wildlife to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience.
Source: https://petstutorial.com
Category: Animals
