A venomous sea snake was found on Omaha Beach near Auckland, New Zealand, earlier this week.
The yellow-bellied sea snake was alive when first spotted by a beachgoer but was found dead when rangers arrived. The Department of Conservation believes it may have been bitten by a dog or harmed by someone.
The snake likely washed ashore because of recent rough weather. DOC ranger Karl Fisher explained that sea snakes can get tired and come onto land, but they aren’t built for moving on the beach and become weak and slow.
The yellow-bellied sea snake is dangerous and can be aggressive. While they live in the ocean around New Zealand from spring to autumn, it’s very rare to see one on land. Because of the recent extreme weather, other sea animals and birds have also been blown ashore.
The DOC has taken the snake to their office in Warkworth for examination. Officials are warning people to stay away from the southern part of Omaha Beach and to keep dogs away from the area.
The public is reminded that these sea snakes are protected by law. It is illegal to kill or keep them. Anyone who sees a sea snake should stay clear and report it.
“We want people to be safe, especially children and dog walkers,” said Fisher.
