Yellow-bellied sea Snake cape town beach fish hoek

Photo: Ocean Pledge / Facebook

Cape Town locals warned as ‘highly venomous snake’ spotted on beach

A yellow-bellied sea snake washed up on a popular beach in Cape Town this week – and more of the dangerous serpents may appear ‘in the coming days’.

Yellow-bellied sea Snake cape town beach fish hoek

Photo: Ocean Pledge / Facebook

An environmental conservation group has warned beachgoers in Cape Town that more highly venomous snakes ‘are likely to wash up on the shore’ this week, after a yellow-bellied sea snake was discovered in Fish Hoek.

Where was the beach snake found in Cape Town?

The nearby beach at False Bay is a haven for tourists and locals alike, but this discovery has put the authorities on high alert. Ocean Pledge, who were able to confirm the sighting on Wednesday, has strongly advised visitors to avoid the snake at all costs – given that they pose a real threat to humans, and no anti-venom is available for their bites:

“A yellow-bellied sea snake washed up on Fish Hoek beach. When these guys wash-up, it’s a bad sign as it means they are likely sick. This also means that we can expect more to wash up along the coast over the coming days so please keep a lookout on your beach strolls.”

“Don’t try to put them back in the water, and do not handle the snake! They will just re-beach. These sea snakes are venomous, so mind the sharp end – and keep dogs and kids away. Currently, there is no anti-venom for bites.”

Ocean Pledge

Beachgoers warned of ‘danger’

The yellow-bellied sea snake was collected by a marine official, who was able to send the creature for further examination at the Two Oceans Aquarium in Cape Town. Unfortunately, the serpent is understood to have died after beaching. The event itself is extremely rare, as these animals prefer the tropical waters of the Pacific and Indian Oceans

However, Ocean Pledge is resigned to the possibility that ‘one brings more’, and those frequenting the beach at Fish Hoek this weekend must exercise extreme caution. Should you encounter this type of snake over the long weekend, get in touch with one of the following contacts:

  • Phone local snake handler Jon Monsoon: 071 871 4980
  • Call Two Oceans Aquarium: 021 418 3823
  • Contact Two Oceans Aquarium on Twitter: @2OceansAquarium