Experts say the reported yellow-bellied sea snake poses little danger when left alone, but beachgoers should never attempt to handle unfamiliar marine wildlife.
A possible yellow-bellied sea snake has been recorded at Crystal Cove, potentially adding to a small number of sightings of the tropical species along California’s coast.
Cellphone footage broadcast by CBS Los Angeles shows a dark-and-yellow snake on the beach at night as someone uses what appears to be part of a palm frond to return it to the water.
Greg Pauly, a reptile expert with the Natural History Museum of Los Angeles County, told the Los Angeles Times that only six confirmed sightings of the species have been documented in California since 1972. Pauly was seeking the original video and additional information to verify the latest report.
Yellow-bellied sea snakes normally live in warmer tropical waters. Experts believe unusually warm Pacific temperatures can carry the animals farther north through ocean currents.
The species possesses potent venom used to subdue fish but is not considered aggressive toward people.
“If you’re not handling them, you’re fine,” San Diego State University snake expert Hayley Crowell told the Times.
The snakes spend their entire lives in the ocean and are largely unable to move on land. A snake found ashore may also be sick, injured or weakened by colder water.
Crowell recommended contacting wildlife officials instead of attempting to move an unfamiliar snake.
Beachgoers who encounter unusual marine wildlife should remain at a safe distance, keep children and pets away and notify a lifeguard or park ranger. They should not touch the animal or attempt to return it to the ocean.
Sources
Los Angeles Times — September 17, 2026
People — September 18, 2026
