HILO — A snake killed while roaming a dock at Hilo Harbor on the Big Island Friday has been identified as a chequered keelback snake, also known as an Asiatic water snake (Xenochrophis piscator). The non-venomous snake is commonly found
HILO — A snake killed while roaming a dock at Hilo Harbor on the Big Island Friday has been identified as a chequered keelback snake, also known as an Asiatic water snake (Xenochrophis piscator).
The non-venomous snake is commonly found in Asia and the East Indies, but not common in the pet trade in the United States. It is not known how the snake arrived in Hawai‘i.
A construction worker at Pier 2 saw the 2-foot-long snake under the pier and was able to kill it, states a Hawaii Department of Agriculture press release. The snake was discovered around 9:30 a.m., and inspectors from the state Department of Agriculture were called in to remove it.
The snake was flown to O‘ahu late Friday afternoon and identified yesterday by a herpetologist at the Bishop Museum, states the release.
Snakes are illegal in Hawai‘i and the ag department suggests anyone spotting a snake should not handle it. Snakes have no natural predators in the islands, and pose a serious threat to Hawai‘i’s environment, according to the release.
Many species also prey on birds and their eggs, increasing the threat to endangered native birds. Large snakes can also be a danger to the public and small pets.
People harboring illegal animals are encouraged to turn them in under the state’s amnesty program, which provides immunity from prosecution. Illegal animals can be turned in to any HDOA Office, municipal zoo or Humane Society.
Anyone with information on illegal animals should call the state’s toll-free hotline at 643-PEST (7378).
