It was always said that there are no snakes in Hawaii.
At one time that may have been true, but now there are several varieties of snakes on the islands.
The good news is that most are non-poisonous.
Seeing a snake is not always a happy experience, but in Hawaii, the odds of someone being bitten or harmed are almost nil.
The best course of action is to avoid it and move along.
The rise in the snake population in Hawaii is related to the increase in the tourism industry, unfortunately.
Trade and people smuggling snakes and other animals have created a population of snakes.
Still, they are mostly harmless and can be avoided with care.
This doesnât mean that you should be concerned about your vacation in paradise!
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Snake Species in Hawaii
While it is unlikely that you will encounter a snake in Hawaii, these are some of the most common varieties.
Again, this is the result of the importation of illegal animals, as well as animals that were hidden in the many shipments to the island.
Due to their impact on the environment and wildlife in Hawaii, itâs important to report sightings to the Hawaii Department of Agriculture.
Ball Python
These can grow to be large snakes that are also popular pets in the United States.
When juveniles, they are small but quickly grow into snakes that are several feet long.
While not a danger to humans, they do cause problems with local birds and small mammals on the islands.
Boa Constrictor
This is another snake that is popular with snake owners.
It also grows to a large size â sometimes up to 12 feet in length.
Their colors and patterns make them attractive to owners until their incredible size makes them hard to maintain.
They prey on birds and small mammals, so this disrupts that environment.
Garter Snake
These snakes are identified by their colorful patterns.
But the colors vary with the species.
Technically, they are venomous, but the chances of being bitten are very low.
If you are, expect a small amount of swelling.
While they are common on the mainland, they are not in Hawaii.
They have been identified in Christmas tree shipments to the islands in 2004 and 2020.
Shipping inspections have kept the island relatively free of garter snakes.
Brahminy Blind Snake
While not native to Hawaii, this small six-inch snake is one of the smallest in the world.
They resemble earthworms, so are often mistaken for in gardens.
It is harmless to people and other animals.
They primarily feed on ants and termites, which makes them welcome to most homeowners.
Corn Snakes
While they can grow up to six feet in length, they arenât really dangerous to humans.
They are abundant in the southeast of the United States and prefer to eat tree frogs, lizards, rats, and birds.
While not many have been found in Hawaii, they do present a threat to indigenous wildlife.
Venomous Snakes in Hawaii
There are very few venomous snakes in Hawaii, so it should be a concern but there are a few.
If you do see one, stay far away and immediately contact the Hawaii Department of Agriculture.
Brown Tree Snake
These snakes feature cat-like eyes and prey on local birds.
The interesting thing is that only 8 were found between 1981 â 1998.
Accidentally brought from Guam in the 1950s, there is the risk that they could reproduce and harm the local animals including birds and small mammals.
They have no natural predators, so the state government took a bold step in 2018 by importing several sterile snakes to the islands.
While this may not seem to be a good step, these snakes were used to train dogs to identify the snakes in shipments from boats and planes.
Yellow-bellied Sea Snake
These sea snakes feature a bright yellow belly with a black back.
They can be found off the coast of Hawaii.
It is the most venomous snake on the islands.
While it is rare to find them on land, this is a positive thing.
Its venom is extremely strong, causing paralysis and death.
Despite this danger, no one has ever been reportedly bitten by one in Hawaii.
They tend to shy away from contact or an attack situation.
Is it Safe to Go on a Trek in Hawaii?
Absolutely!
Enjoy the island paradise.
Simply dress appropriately and be aware of your surroundings.
You shouldnât experience any problems.
Planning a trip to Hawaii?
There should be a few concerns about snakes while you are on vacation in paradise.
Once it was believed that the islands were snake-free.
However, increased tourism and trade have brought more snakes to the islands.
Snakes sometimes âhitch ridesâ on boats and plane deliveries.
That is why the government has stepped up its examination of all imports.
They are also looking more closely at people who smuggle snakes in as personal pets.
This is important for the overall economy and ecosystem in Hawaii.
Itâs important to realize the animals and plants of the islands function in a delicate balance.
Any increase in snakes that have no natural predators upsets that balance even if they are not a threat to humans.
So yes, there are poisonous snakes in Hawaii, but the odds of having contact with them are very low.
The odds increase slightly that you might encounter a ball python or boa constrictor.
The chances of seeing these snakes are again very low.
As the islanders say, you have a greater chance of spotting a shark while on the island.
However, this, too, is a very rare occurrence.
So, relax and enjoy your time with your family on the island.
Soak up every bit of the special beauty that is there without worrying about snakes.
If you, by chance, encounter a snake, contact the Department of Agriculture.
They are working hard to keep everyone, people and animals, safe.
Hawaii Safety Overview
READ THE FULL REPORT: Hawaii Safety Review
Safety Index:
- OVERALL RISK: LOW
- TRANSPORT & TAXIS RISK: MEDIUM
- PICKPOCKETS RISK: MEDIUM
- NATURAL DISASTERS RISK: HIGH
- MUGGING RISK: LOW
- TERRORISM RISK: MEDIUM
- SCAMS RISK: MEDIUM
- WOMEN TRAVELERS RISK: MEDIUM
Frequently Asked Questions
Are there snakes that are native to Hawaii?
No.
However, snakes have populated the island due to increased tourism, transportation, and unfortunately, smuggling.
These factors have increased the snake population over the years.
Is it legal to own snakes in Hawaii?
No.
The government has made it clear that owning snakes is against the law.
Snakes are invasive to the environment and disrupt the ecosystem.
As there are no snake predators, this makes them a threat to the wildlife native to the islands.
Those who are caught with pet snakes can face up to three years in jail and a fine of $200,000.
These steps have made it safer for visitors.
The islanders often say that you will more likely run into a shark than a snake.
Although the odds for that are also very low.
Are snakes common in Hawaii?
No.
It is not very common to see a snake on the island.
While they may be there, most are nonvenomous and timid.
There are two types you may see the Brahminy blind snake (aka the island blind snake) and the yellow-bellied sea snake.
So, if you see a Brahminy blind snake, donât give it a second thought.
If you see a yellow-bellied sea snake, get as far out of the way as possible.
Additional Resources
Are There Snakes in Maui? Should You Be Worried?
Are There Snakes in Kauai? Should You Be Worried?
Are There Snakes in the Bahamas? Should You Be Worried?
Are There Snakes in Japan? Should You Be Worried?
Are There Snakes in Puerto Rico? Should You Be Worried?
Are There Snakes in Jamaica? Should You Be Worried?
