Ball python captured at Honolulu-area residence.
Generic ball python image.

Hawaii does not have native snake populations, so any report of a snake on the loose is cause for alarm.

That certainly was the case Sunday after a Honolulu-area homeowner spotted a 3-1/2-foot ball python in his backyard.

According to the Hawaii Department of Agriculture, the Kaimuki resident initially mistook the immobile snake as a child’s toy. But during the night he saw the toy stretch out and begin to slither, so he dialed 911.

ALSO: Wyoming poachers open fire on pronghorn herd in 'disturbing' incident

Officers with the Honolulu Police arrived and secured the area, and quickly summoned inspectors with the Department of Agriculture.

Inspectors captured the “docile” and nonvenomous reptile, believed to have been someone’s freed or escaped pet, with a pair of tongs.

Because snakes are highly invasive in Hawaii, and pose substantial threats to endangered bird species, it’s illegal to own or possess the reptiles. Violators can be fined up to $200,000 and jailed for up to five years.

Ball pythons are native to West and Central Africa. Their name stems from the fact that they often curl into a ball when stressed or threatened.

The ball python captured at the Kaimuki residence is being “safeguarded” at the Department of Agriculture’s Plant Quarantine Branch.

This article originally appeared on For The Win: Hawaii authorities act quickly after alarming python discovery

Reporting by Pete Thomas, For The Win / For The Win

USA TODAY Network via Reuters Connect