WAIMANALO, Hawaii (KHON2) -- Beachgoers received a shocking surprise after a sea snake was found washed ashore at Waimanalo Beach.
Experts at the Waikiki Aquarium said the rare find was a yellow-bellied sea snake, which are usually seen in the tropical Pacific.
While this type of sea snake generally tends to stay offshore, experts explained that the recent high winds and tides most likely washed it onto the sand.
"Once they get washed onto the sand, they can't crawl like normal snakes because the body is keeled underneath, so they kind of wobble," said Dr. Andrew Rossiter from the Waikiki Aquarium.
Rossiter explained that sea snakes are not aggressive, but they are venomous and carry a strong neurotoxin.
Luckily, the sea snake was discovered before any danger was brought to the snake or the public.