There are many sea snake reports coming from the Gulf of Mexico.
Sea snakes are not native to the Gulf and there have never been scientifically verified specimens found in the region but sightings persist.
Here is just a sampling of reports we have received at Higher Calling Wildlife®.
Cave Encounter in Cancun, Mexico
A swimmer in a cave with their 3-year-old daughter encountered a massive, dark, shiny black snake with a vivid, wide red stripe along its side. Estimated at 10 feet long, the snake had a flat, wide body much larger than a python. Despite seeking answers at an aquarium, they could not identify this unusual snake among known sea snake species, as most are much more slender. The sighting occurred 25 years ago.
Sea Krait Sighting in Galveston, Texas
A marine biology-trained couple observed a 7–8 foot long sea krait with a paddle-like tail and unmistakable blue coloring. It swam against a strong outgoing tide near a fishing pier and eventually moved onto land. The witnesses emphasized their certainty in distinguishing it from an eel and speculated its presence might be linked to international shipping introducing non-native species to the area.
Possible Sea Krait in Nayarit, Mexico
A snorkeler in the Islas Marietas National Park off the Nayarit coast reported seeing what appeared to be a banded sea krait on the sea floor in a reef. The observer sought confirmation of similar sightings, unsure if their identification was accurate.
Yellow Snake Encounter in Corpus Christi, Texas
A yellow snake emerged from the water at a beach, startling a group of friends. After comparing photos, the snake was tentatively identified as a juvenile yellow-bellied sea snake. The incident led to a discussion on the rarity of sea snakes in the Gulf of Mexico.
Translucent Snake in Bradenton Beach, Florida
A translucent pinkish snake, approximately 2 feet long and 1 inch in diameter, was seen on multiple occasions at a pier. A similar yellowish snake was observed once, both swimming at the surface near lights. These rare sightings prompted the observer to handle the animals with caution.
Group of Banded Sea Snakes in Pasco County, Florida
At least 20 banded sea snakes were spotted swimming near a creek mouth by a fisherman with decades of experience in the area. The snakes moved towards the Gulf with the outgoing tide, an unusual sighting for the seasoned observer.
Sea Snake Sighting in Akumal Bay, Mexico
On two separate occasions, a visitor observed what appeared to be a sea snake gliding along the shoreline in Akumal Bay. The black-and-white banded appearance matched images of sea kraits. The observer was struck by the rarity of such sightings in the Caribbean.
Sarasota Bay, Florida Sea Snake Observations
A white sea snake with black bands was seen multiple times in Sarasota Bay, Florida. The observer explained the sightings to friends and initially assumed such snakes lived in the Gulf before reading articles indicating otherwise.
Banded Sea Snake Near Freeport, Texas
During a fishing trip near an offshore oil rig, a witness observed a black-and-white banded sea snake near the rig’s structure.
We believe some of these reports are likely a case of mistaken identity with eels, but some are not as easy to explain away.
What do you think about these reports?
Do you think you have encountered a sea snake in the Gulf of Mexico?
Submit reports to chester@chestermoore.com.
Creepy Dolls In the Swamp!
Swamps are popular places for hunting, fishing and camping.
Swamps are also a place where many crimes are committed and where many missing people simply vanished.
In this captivating episode of the Dark Outdoors podcast, renowned author and adventurer Lyle Blackburn delves into the enigmatic and often perilous realms of North America’s swamplands, as chronicled in his book, “Sinister Swamps: Monsters and Mysteries from the Mire.” Tailored for hunting and fishing enthusiasts, this discussion unveils the hidden dangers and mysteries lurking within these shadowy wetlands.
You can listen here on Apple Podcasts & Spotify here.
You can also listen directly on Podbean.
Unexplained Disappearances in the Everglades and Great Dismal Swamp
Blackburn recounts chilling tales of hunters, campers, and outdoorsmen who vanished without a trace in the vast expanses of the Everglades and the Great Dismal Swamp. These stories of missing outdoors lovrs highlight the unpredictable and treacherous nature of these environments, where dense foliage and murky waters can conceal both natural and unnatural threats. Listeners are urged to consider the potential hazards that lie beyond the familiar trails, emphasizing the importance of vigilance and preparedness in such remote areas.
Venturing into the heart of an Alabama swamp, Blackburn explores the unsettling discovery of mysterious dolls eerily displayed among the trees. This bizarre tableau has puzzled locals and visitors alike, sparking theories ranging from local folklore to sinister intentions. For those who frequent the outdoors, this account serves as a reminder of the inexplicable occurrences that can transform a routine excursion into an uncanny experience.
Check out our first, groundbreaking article on sea snakes here.
Chester Moore
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Email Chester at chester@chestermoore.com.
