Save Newport Real News in Newport Beach
California isn’t known for poisonous sea snakes, but El Nino waters have brought the Yellow Bellied Sea Snake as far north as Oxnard (by Santa Barbara). If you see this snake, do not handle it, as it is a rare snake that is highly venomous.
Please see a map of their normal habitat areas, here:
These sightings mark the first time in 30 years that the snakes have been found on our beaches, according to Heal The Bay.
There is no reason to panic, as most encounters with these sea snakes show them to be relatively non-aggressive, but if you are bitten, seek immediate medical attention. Just be aware that the ocean life which is normally found in more tropical regions is now coming ashore much closer to home!
