This gopher snake was found June 13 at the Matson Navigation Co.’s container yard. Courtesy state Department of Agriculture

The 3 1/2-foot snake was found by a Matson employee and turned over to the Agriculture Department.

It is unknown how the snake ended up in Hawai'i.

Snakes are illegal in the state because they pose a threat to the environment and could harm the public and small pets.

Officials ask anyone with information on illegal animals to call the state's toll-free pest hotline at 643-7378. Those who have illegal animals can turn them in under amnesty of prosecution.