Sea Snakes of Boracay: Mysterious and Misunderstood

The waters surrounding Boracay are teeming with marine life, from vibrant reef fish to elusive macro creatures. Among the many fascinating species that divers encounter, sea snakes stand out as one of the most intriguing. With their graceful movements and striking patterns, these serpentine swimmers are often misunderstood, feared due to their venomous reputation, yet rarely aggressive toward humans.

For divers and underwater enthusiasts, encountering a sea snake is a rare and thrilling experience. In this article, we’ll explore the species of sea snakes found in Boracay, their unique adaptations, behaviors, and the best places to see them while diving.

What Are Sea Snakes?

Sea snakes belong to the Elapidae family, which includes their land-based relatives—cobras and kraits. Unlike land snakes, sea snakes have evolved to live in marine environments, with specialized adaptations that allow them to thrive underwater.

Key Adaptations of Sea Snakes:

• Paddle-Shaped Tail: Acts like a fin, helping them glide effortlessly through the water.
• Salt Glands: They can expel excess salt, allowing them to survive in the ocean without drinking fresh water.
• Lung Adaptation: Unlike fish, they must surface to breathe, but their lungs can extend nearly the length of their bodies, enabling them to stay submerged for up to two hours.
• Highly Potent Venom: Some sea snakes produce venom more toxic than cobras, but they rarely bite humans unless provoked.

Despite their reputation, sea snakes are generally docile and non-aggressive, making them a fascinating species to observe during a dive.

Sea Snakes Found in Boracay

Several species of sea snakes can be found in Boracay’s waters, but the most commonly encountered is the Banded Sea Krait (Laticauda colubrina).

Banded Sea Krait (Laticauda colubrina)

✅ Distinct Features: Black-and-white bands, a flattened paddle-like tail, and a yellow snout.
✅ Size: Can grow up to 1.5 meters (5 feet) in length.
✅ Behavior:

• Unlike fully aquatic sea snakes, banded sea kraits are semi-aquatic, meaning they often return to land to rest and lay eggs.
• They are non-aggressive and will usually retreat if approached.
• Often seen weaving through coral reefs in search of small fish, eels, and crustaceans.
  ✅ Venom: Extremely potent, but bites are incredibly rare. Most sea snake bites occur when fishermen accidentally handle them.

Although the Banded Sea Krait is the most commonly spotted species, other less frequently seen sea snakes may occasionally make an appearance in Boracay’s deeper waters.

Best Dive Sites to Spot Sea Snakes in Boracay

For divers hoping to encounter a sea snake in the wild, Boracay’s diverse dive sites provide ample opportunities. They are often found hunting in coral reefs, near rocky outcrops, and in areas with plenty of small fish.

📍 Crocodile Island

• One of the best sites to spot banded sea kraits, as the shallow reef is home to an abundance of eels and small fish—prime hunting grounds for sea snakes.
• Also a great location for macro photography and spotting nudibranchs, frogfish, and pipefish.

📍 Tambisaan Reef

• This dive site has a mix of coral formations and sandy patches, which sea snakes often navigate while foraging.
• Offers excellent visibility for spotting marine life.

📍 Friday’s Rock

• A great site for beginner divers that also provides chances to see sea snakes among the reef structures.

📍 Channel Drift

• The currents in this area bring plenty of food, making it a potential hunting ground for sea snakes.
• Divers should be aware of the current strength while keeping an eye out for elusive sea creatures.

The Role of Sea Snakes in the Marine Ecosystem

Sea snakes play an essential role in maintaining the balance of marine ecosystems.

🌊 Natural Predators: They primarily feed on small fish, moray eels, and crustaceans, preventing overpopulation of certain species.
🌊 Prey for Larger Marine Life: While venomous, they are hunted by sharks, larger fish, and sea birds.
🌊 Indicators of a Healthy Reef: Their presence often signals a rich and diverse marine environment, as they rely on thriving reef ecosystems for food.

By protecting Boracay’s reefs, divers and conservationists help ensure that species like sea snakes continue to thrive in their natural habitat.

Are Sea Snakes Dangerous? Understanding Their Venom and Behavior

One of the biggest misconceptions about sea snakes is that they are aggressive and a threat to divers. In reality, sea snakes are shy, non-aggressive creatures that prefer to avoid confrontation.

Understanding Sea Snake Behavior:

✔️ Curious but Not Aggressive: Sea snakes may approach divers out of curiosity but rarely show signs of aggression.
✔️ Venomous but Not a Threat: While their venom is highly potent, they almost never bite humans unless handled or provoked.
✔️ Timid and Reclusive: They tend to retreat when they feel threatened.

How to Safely Observe Sea Snakes While Diving

• Do Not Chase or Corner Them – Allow them to move freely without feeling trapped.
• Avoid Touching Them – Even though they are not aggressive, they may bite if they feel threatened.
• Maintain Neutral Buoyancy – Avoid accidental contact with the reef where a sea snake might be hiding.
• Stay Calm and Observe – Enjoy the moment from a respectful distance.

Most sea snake bites occur when people try to handle them, often in fishing situations. As long as divers respect their space, there is no real danger in observing them in the wild.

Myths and Misconceptions About Sea Snakes

There are many myths surrounding sea snakes, leading to unnecessary fear. Let’s debunk some common misconceptions:

❌ Myth: Sea Snakes Chase Divers
✅ Fact: Sea snakes do not chase humans. If they approach, it is usually out of curiosity before they swim away.

❌ Myth: Their Bite is Always Fatal
✅ Fact: While highly venomous, sea snakes rarely bite, and antivenom is available in case of emergencies.

❌ Myth: They Can’t Move on Land
✅ Fact: Banded sea kraits, in particular, are semi-aquatic and frequently come ashore to rest.

Understanding these creatures helps promote respect rather than fear, allowing divers to appreciate them as a vital part of Boracay’s marine ecosystem.

Final Thoughts: Encountering Sea Snakes in Boracay

For divers seeking a unique and fascinating encounter, spotting a sea snake in Boracay’s waters is an unforgettable experience. These elegant reptiles, with their graceful swimming style and secretive nature, are a testament to the diversity and beauty of marine life in Boracay.

At New Wave Divers Boracay, we prioritize safe and responsible diving, ensuring that divers can observe these magnificent creatures without disturbing their natural behavior. If you’re eager to explore Boracay’s reefs and encounter a Banded Sea Krait in its natural habitat, book a dive with us today!

Ready to dive into Boracay’s underwater world? Join us at New Wave Divers and experience the beauty of sea snakes firsthand!

Wish to know more about the diving in Boracay? Our team will be delighted to answer your questions and let us know why we should be your first choice when planning your dive vacation to the Philippines. We hope to hear from you soon!