HONOLULU (KHON2) -- A live snake was discovered inside a shipment of Christmas trees at a store in Hilo on Saturday, Nov. 16. Get Hawaii's latest morning news delivered to your inbox, sign up for News 2 You Store staff, who were unloading the container, spotted the two-foot-long snake after unpacking half of the load. The container was quickly sealed, and the Hawaii Department of Agriculture (HDOA) was alerted. Agriculture inspectors from the Plant Quarantine Branch (PQB) responded promptly to the scene and captured the non-venomous gopher snake. The inspectors conducted a thorough search of the container and all the trees, but no additional snakes were found. Sharon Hurd, chairperson of the HDOA, commended the store staff for their swift action. Former UH regent: Angelos firing like Shakespearean play "Although inspectors open every container of Christmas trees and wreaths that arrive, we do not have the resources to inspect every single item in each shipment," Hurd said. "We appreciate the quick containment by the store staff and our Hilo team's prompt response." The gopher snake, typically found in North America, will be transported to Honolulu. These snakes can grow up to seven feet and prey on small rodents, rabbits, lizards, and birds, killing them through constriction. Hawaii’s lack of natural predators for snakes and large reptiles poses a significant threat to native wildlife, including endangered bird species. Invasive snakes also compete with native animals for food and habitat, and large ones can be dangerous to humans and pets. The HDOA's PQB expects approximately 135 containers of Christmas trees and wreaths to arrive in Hawaii this season. So far, 88 containers have been received, totaling around 46,450 trees. Download the free KHON2 app for iOS or Android to stay informed on the latest news Anyone with information about the illegal importation of animals is urged to call the statewide PEST HOTLINE at 808-643-PEST (7378).