Dead Snake Found in Charcoal Bag in Maui
State officials are investigating after a resident discovered a nonvenomous snake inside imported charcoal in Nahiku.
Updated on Oct. 23, 2026 in Reptiles
Live Poll
Do you trust that state authorities effectively prevent invasive animals from entering your area?
A resident in Nahiku, Maui, discovered a dead snake inside a bag of charcoal while preparing to grill on October 17, 2026. State agricultural officials identified the specimen as a likely nonvenomous rat snake that arrived in packaging from outside Hawaii.
Why it matters
Snakes are prohibited in Hawaii because they pose a significant threat to the state's unique ecosystem and native wildlife. This incident highlights the importance of inspecting imported goods for invasive species that can travel through supply chains.
The snake was found at the Nahiku Marketplace near Mile 29. Hawaii Department of Agriculture officials oversaw the disposal of the animal after it was recovered from the charcoal.
The players
Hawaii Department of Agriculture
The state agency responsible for protecting Hawaii's agriculture and environment from invasive species through its Quarantine Division.
The details
The discovery occurred when the resident opened a bag of charcoal, which had been imported from outside the state, to add fuel to a grill. State officials confirmed the snake was a likely nonvenomous rat snake and authorized its disposal to prevent any further risk to the area.
Timeline
October 17, 2026: The resident discovered the snake while grilling.
The Home Front
Hawaii maintains strict regulations against snake ownership due to the potential for severe ecological disruption. This discovery aligns with ongoing state efforts to monitor commercial imports for hitchhiking pests.
If you find a suspected invasive animal or snake, do not attempt to handle or capture it. Report the sighting immediately to state authorities by calling the pest hotline at 808-643-PEST.
The takeaway
Always inspect bags of charcoal or other imported goods for hidden pests before use. If you encounter an unusual animal in Hawaii, record its location and call 808-643-PEST immediately.
Further reading
Learn more about the state's policies and identification efforts at Reptiles.
Source note: This article includes information reported by Hawaiinewsnow.
Live Poll
Do you trust that state authorities effectively prevent invasive animals from entering your area?
