The Department of Conservation is warning the public to stay clear of the southern end of Omaha Beach near Auckland after a live venomous yellow-bellied sea snake - was found. Photo: Supplied / Department of Conservation
A venomous sea snake found at a north Auckland beach appears to have been fatally bitten by a dog or bashed to death.
The native yellow-bellied sea snake was spotted alive at Omaha Beach near Auckland and was photographed by a beachgoer and reported to the Department of Conservation.
Department of Conservation senior ranger Karl Fisher said when rangers arrived the snake was dead.
Fisher said the tropical snakes are in our waters from spring to autumn and there could be a reason why it was on land.
"Probably just got caught in this weather pattern that's going on through at the moment, you know, got a bit tired, needed to come ashore and rest.
"Unfortunately they're not very good on the land, quite lethargic, less agile and not as sleek on the land."
The dead snake has been taken to DOC's office in Warkworth and will be examined.
The Department of Conservation (DOC) had warned the public to stay clear of the southern end of the beach and keep dogs away.
Fisher said the snake was spotted by a member of the public, and a ranger was sent to investigate.
The yellow-bellied sea snakes are venomous and can be aggressive, Fisher said. They are found throughout the Pacific Ocean and are native to New Zealand.
The Department of Conservation is warning the public to stay clear of the southern end of Omaha Beach near Auckland after a live venomous yellow-bellied sea snake - was found. Photo: Supplied / Department of Conservation
"It's very uncommon to see them on land, but with the extreme weather we've had recently, we are seeing all kinds of birds and sea life being blown ashore."
Yellow-bellied sea snakes are rarely encountered on beaches.
DOC reminded the public it is illegal to kill or possess a native sea snake, and urged anyone who sees the creature to report sightings immediately by calling 0800 DOC HOT.
"We want to make sure the public are aware and especially dog walkers or any children playing in the area," Fisher said.
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