After extensive investigations, no evidence has been found of a rattlesnake in an area searched by local teams and international experts — including dogs, the Ministry of Public Works and Environment announced this afternoon.

Jaché Adams, the minister, said several wildlife specialists searched the area of Gibbs Hill Lighthouse in Southampton since late June using trained canines and repeated field inspections.

Since then, he added, no evidence of the animal, including a body, shed skin, tracks or scent, was identified.

Mr Adams said: “From the outset, Government’s priority has been the safety of the public and the protection of Bermuda’s environment.

“The reported sighting was considered credible and warranted a comprehensive response.

“Given the potentially serious consequences of a venomous invasive species, it was appropriate to take a precautionary approach while investigations were carried out.

“Government took the necessary steps to protect the public while the matter was thoroughly assessed.”

Residents were alerted about the reptile’s presence on June 27, a day after it was understood to be seen in the Gibbs Hill area of Southampton.

The search operation relied on the Department of Environment and Natural Resources, the Bermuda Aquarium, Museum and Zoo, the Bermuda Police Service and specialist wildlife teams.

A ministry spokeswoman said that, despite the efforts, no evidence was found to support the presence of a rattlesnake in the reported area.

The DENR will continue to monitor the situation and investigate any credible sightings or reports that may emerge.

The spokeswoman added: “Ministry remains committed to protecting public safety and responding promptly should new information become available.

“The information received at the outset of the incident, together with all related findings, continues to be reviewed by the relevant agencies as part of the ongoing assessment.”

Mr Adams said: “As Bermuda prepares to celebrate Cup Match, I encourage residents and visitors to enjoy the holiday, whether camping, spending time at our beaches, enjoying our parks or taking part in other outdoor activities.

“As always, the public should remain aware of their surroundings and report any unusual wildlife sightings to the Department of Environment and Natural Resources.”

The ministry was asked this afternoon if the original sighting was still considered credible, given the latest information, as well as whether that initial report was considered to be a hoax or artificially manufactured.

The Royal Gazette also asked what it cost to bring in US-based National Canine Facility to help with the search efforts.

A response is anticipated.

Residents of Gibbs Hill Road area were advised to avoid entering dense vegetation or reaching into areas where visibility was limited, such as beneath boards, inside pipes or in other enclosed spaces where the eastern diamondback rattlesnake was reported to be concealed.

Residents in the surrounding area were encouraged to remain vigilant and pet owners were asked to keep pets indoors or under close supervision until further notice.

Nearby residents, first responders and healthcare services were notified as officers with the DENR and the BAMZ, investigated the reptile’s presence.

National Canine Facility started searching for the snake this month.

Robert Nozika and Sarah Boese arrived on the island on July 16 with two Labrador retrievers, K9 Yak and K9 Q, trained to scent an eastern diamondback rattlesnake.

Their search efforts were mainly done at dawn and dusk, when the species is generally most active, but also at other times throughout a ten-day period.

The ministry thanked all response teams and members of the public for their assistance throughout this response.