Hawaii is known for its unique natural world, leading to questions about the presence of snakes, especially on the Big Island. Hawaii is one of the few places globally largely free of native snake populations. This distinctive characteristic is a defining feature of the islands’ ecology, contributing to its unique biodiversity.
The Current Situation: Snakes in Hawaii
Hawaii does not have any native land snake species. Any snake sightings are typically isolated incidents involving non-native species, most often smuggled pets or accidental stowaways. For example, ball pythons, corn snakes, and boa constrictors have been found on occasion, usually confiscated by authorities. These are not established wild populations but rather individual animals that have escaped or been illegally introduced.
One exception is the Brahminy blind snake (Indotyphlops braminus), a tiny, worm-like species believed to have arrived accidentally in plant imports. While established, this non-venomous snake is small and poses little threat to the ecosystem or humans.
Additionally, yellow-bellied sea snakes (Pelamis platurus) are sometimes found in Hawaiian waters, occasionally washing ashore, but these are marine species and rarely come onto land.
Why Hawaii Remains Largely Snake-Free
Hawaii’s geographical isolation is a primary factor in its snake-free status. The islands are located thousands of miles from any continental landmass, creating a natural barrier that prevents snakes from reaching them naturally. The islands are also geologically young, meaning they formed without terrestrial connections to other landmasses, making natural colonization by land animals incredibly difficult. Few terrestrial species could survive the vast oceanic distances to establish a reproducing population.
The Threat of Invasive Snakes
Despite the current snake-free status, the potential introduction of invasive snakes, particularly the brown tree snake (Boiga irregularis), poses a severe ecological threat. This species, native to areas like Australia and New Guinea, devastated bird populations on Guam after its accidental introduction there. On Guam, it led to the extinction of nine of 13 forest bird species and three lizard species.
If established in Hawaii, the brown tree snake could similarly decimate native bird populations, which have no evolved defenses against such a predator. Beyond ecological damage, these snakes cause significant economic disruption, including frequent power outages by climbing utility poles and entering electrical equipment. Economic studies estimate that a brown tree snake invasion could result in annual damages ranging from $28.5 million to $405 million, with some assessments indicating a potential cost of up to $1.7 billion per year, including impacts on tourism.
Hawaii’s Biosecurity Efforts and Public Role
Hawaii employs strict biosecurity measures to prevent invasive snake introductions. These efforts include rigorous inspections of incoming cargo, baggage, and mail at ports of entry, utilizing trained personnel and detection technologies like X-ray machines and canine units.
The Hawaii Department of Agriculture (HDOA) operates a “Pest Hotline” (643-PEST) for reporting suspected invasive species sightings. Public awareness campaigns educate residents and visitors about preventing introductions. The state also has an amnesty program, allowing individuals to surrender illegally possessed animals without penalty before an investigation begins.
Penalties for illegally possessing or transporting snakes in Hawaii are severe, including fines up to $200,000 and up to three years in prison. If a snake is encountered, do not handle it; immediately report the sighting to authorities, providing details about its location and appearance.