Photo for illustrative purposes only. ARCHIVE

Beach goers in UAE warned against sea snakes

The Abu Dhabi Environment Agency (EAD) has warned beachgoers in the capital to be on the lookout for sea snakes. During the winter, sea snakes called Bogni migrate to shallow waters to feed and breed. According to EAD, sea snakes in Abu Dhabi inhabit open and shallow waters, coral reefs, and beaches. Sea snakes gather during the winter when the temperature drops below 22ºC. The minimum temperature across Abu Dhabi's mainland, including the Corniche, has fallen below 21ºC this week. The Corniche and Saadiyat Island are famous beaches in Abu Dhabi. If citizens stumble across a sea snake on the beach, the EAD has advised them to take several precautions. "Keep away from stranded sea snakes and do not handle even if they look dead, as some of them may just be sluggish." According to the EAD, sea snakes are deadly but bite only when provoked or afraid. "Although sea snakes are poisonous, they rarely bite, only when provoked or scared. In case of a bite, seek immediate medical attention and inform the health authorities." Residents who see a sea snake should phone the Abu Dhabi Government call center at 800555. BKM/ Expat Media
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