Discovering Sea Snakes in Fiji: A Guide to Pacific Harbour’s Marine Life

Discovering Sea Snakes in Fiji: A Guide to Pacific Harbour’s Marine Life

Fiji, with its vibrant coral reefs and diverse marine life, is a haven for underwater explorers. Among the many fascinating creatures that divers may encounter in Pacific Harbour and Beqa Lagoon are sea snakes. While sea snakes might evoke a sense of caution, they are intriguing and often misunderstood inhabitants of the ocean. In this guide, we’ll explore the types of sea snakes found in these waters, their behaviors, habitats, and tips for safe encounters.

Types of Sea Snakes in Pacific Harbour

1. Yellow-Bellied Sea Snake (Pelamis platurus)

Overview: The yellow-bellied sea snake is one of the most widely distributed sea snakes, found in tropical waters across the Indo-Pacific region. Its distinctive appearance makes it easily recognizable to divers.

Characteristics:

• Appearance: This snake has a black back and bright yellow underside, with a flattened tail adapted for swimming.
• Size: Adults typically measure around 1 meter (3 feet) in length.
• Behavior: Yellow-bellied sea snakes are pelagic, meaning they live in open water rather than close to the shore. They are often seen floating on the surface or swimming near the surface.

Where to Spot Them:

• Open Water: They can occasionally be spotted by divers during open water dives or while surfacing for air.

2. Banded Sea Krait (Laticauda colubrina)

Overview: The banded sea krait, also known as the yellow-lipped sea krait, is a more commonly encountered species in Fiji’s coastal waters. Unlike the fully aquatic yellow-bellied sea snake, sea kraits spend time both in water and on land.

Characteristics:

• Appearance: Banded sea kraits have a distinctive black and white banding pattern along their bodies and a yellow snout.
• Size: They can grow up to 1.5 meters (5 feet) in length.
• Behavior: These snakes are often seen hunting for eels and small fish in coral reefs. They need to return to land to digest their prey, mate, and lay eggs.

Where to Spot Them:

• Coral Reefs and Rocky Shores: Divers can often see them in shallow reef areas, where they hunt and explore.

Understanding Sea Snake Behavior

Non-Aggressive Nature:

• Sea snakes are generally not aggressive and will not attack unless provoked. They are curious creatures and may approach divers out of curiosity but typically keep their distance.

Venom and Safety:

• Both the yellow-bellied sea snake and the banded sea krait are highly venomous. However, bites are extremely rare and usually occur only when the snake is handled or threatened.

Breathing:

• Sea snakes need to surface to breathe air, so they are often seen near the surface or heading to the surface.

Tips for Safe Sea Snake Encounters

1. Maintain a Safe Distance:
   • Observe sea snakes from a distance and avoid making sudden movements. Allow them to go about their activities undisturbed.
2. Do Not Touch:
   • Never attempt to touch or handle sea snakes. Respect their space and avoid any actions that may provoke them.
3. Stay Calm:
   • If a sea snake approaches, remain calm and still. They are likely just curious and will swim away after investigating.
4. Follow Your Guide:
   • Listen to the advice and instructions of your dive guide. They are experienced in handling encounters with marine life, including sea snakes.

Best Dive Sites to Encounter Sea Snakes

While sea snakes can be found throughout the waters of Pacific Harbour and Beqa Lagoon, certain dive sites are more likely to offer encounters with these fascinating creatures:

• Frigate Passage: Known for its diverse marine life, this site offers a good chance of spotting banded sea kraits among the coral formations.
• Caesar’s Rocks: The rocky outcrops and coral bommies provide ideal hunting grounds for sea kraits.
• Pearl Rock: This site’s vibrant coral gardens attract a variety of marine species, including sea snakes.

Diving in Pacific Harbour and Beqa Lagoon offers a unique opportunity to encounter sea snakes in their natural habitat. While these creatures may seem intimidating, they are fascinating and generally non-aggressive, adding to the rich tapestry of marine life that makes this region a top diving destination. By understanding their behaviors and respecting their space, divers can enjoy safe and memorable encounters with sea snakes. So, gear up and dive into the underwater wonders of Fiji with Coral Coast Divers, where every dive is an adventure.