Department of Agriculture releases photos of snake captured in Waipahu
HONOLULU (HawaiiNewsNow) - The state Department of Agriculture has released photos of the live snake that was caught in Waipahu Friday night.
On Monday, the department said the snake was a two-foot-long, non-venomous corn snake. They said it was found in the yard of a home on Kahuawai Street.
The slithering creature was brought to a nearby animal hospital and later received by inspectors from the Plant Quarantine Branch.
Once the snake was captured, HDOA inspectors canvassed the area and neighboring houses and spoke with nearby residents. It is not known where the snake came from.
Corn snakes are native to North America and are common in the pet trade on the mainland. They are invasive to Hawaii and pose a major risk to Hawaii’s environment.
Agriculture officials say corn snakes are from the constrictor family. They kill prey by coiling around it, leading to suffocation.
Corn snakes usually chow down primarily on small mammals like rodents and occasionally birds.
They can grow up to six feet in length.
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.
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