Zoo visitors were urged not to handle venomous sea snakes following footage of locals touching the creatures at a fair in Thailand.

The Department of Fisheries issued the announcement when video emerged on July 4 of tourists haphazardly holding yellow-lipped sea kraits at the Pramong Nomklao Fair in Pathum Thani.

Taworn highlighted that the yellow-lipped sea krait, recognised as one of the ten deadliest sea snakes worldwide, was showcased at the event to educate visitors about its distinctive behaviour.

Alongside other species, it was displayed to enhance the understanding of their biological characteristics and unique behaviours.

Taworn Thunjai, the deputy director-general of the Department of Fisheries, said that the animal was being exhibited was to raise awareness among visitors, such as divers and fishermen.

He said: 'The intention was to provide accurate information on how to handle encounters with these creatures since they easily become entangled in fishing nets.

'The public can rest assured that an expert in venomous sea snakes is present at the exhibition location.

'However, in order to prevent potential accidents and alleviate concerns, it was decided that the yellow-lipped sea krait would only be displayed inside its box and visitors would not be allowed to touch it.'

The Pramong Nomklao Fair - themed 'Wonders of the Aquatic World' - will be held from June 30 to July 9 to to raise funds for the Chulabhorn Research Institute and promote knowledge about marine species, Taworn said.

The yellow-lipped sea krait, also known as the banded sea krait, can be found in Indo-Pacific waters. It is known to be docile, and will only attack when provoked. However, it carries a potent neurotoxic venom that can cause paralysis and death.