HONOLULU — A live snake was spotted in the yard of a residence in Waipahu, Oahu, and was captured by Honolulu police on Friday night, the state Department of Agriculture said.
HONOLULU — A live snake was spotted in the yard of a residence in Waipahu, Oahu, and was captured by Honolulu police on Friday night, the state Department of Agriculture said.
Police officers took the snake to an animal hospital in the area and the snake was retrieved by inspectors from the Plant Quarantine Branch of the Department of Agriculture on Saturday morning.
The green-colored snake measured about 2 feet and has been tentatively identified as a nonvenomous corn snake. The snake is native to North America and is common in the pet trade on the mainland.
These snakes are constrictors and subdue prey by coiling around it, leading to suffocation. Their diet usually consists primarily of small mammals, such as rodents, and occasionally birds. They may grow up to 6 feet in length, the department said.
After Department of Agriculture inspectors picked up the snake, they also canvassed the area on Kahuawai Street and spoke with nearby residents about the incident. It is not known where the snake came from.
Snakes have no natural predators in Hawaii and pose a serious threat to Hawaii’s environment and economy. Many snake 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.
Individuals who see or know of illegal animals in Hawaii are encouraged to contact the State’s toll-free PEST HOTLINE at 643-PEST (7378) or to turn them in through the State’s amnesty program.
