A rare and venomous snake with black and white bands was spotted in Pasir Ris Park in Singapore. The banded krait was seen slithering stealthily from a tree to the grass patch by a cyclist, Mr Jimmy Hoon, who captured the moment on video.
The snake is a locally endangered species and is rarely seen due to its preference for undisturbed areas with little human traffic. The snake’s presence in the park has raised concerns about the safety of visitors and the local ecosystem.
Although banded kraits are uncommon in Singapore, sightings have recently been reported in places such as Lorong Halus and Pasir Ris Park. The snake prefers mangrove and coastal habitats, with records in Pulau Ubin, Pulau Tekong, Sungei Buloh, and Khatib Bongsu.
The National Parks Board has advised visitors to keep a safe distance from any live snakes they may encounter in the park. Snakes are generally not aggressive and only attack if disturbed or provoked.
The banded krait is highly venomous but is not known to be aggressive and will readily shy away from human contact. The snake’s preference for coastal areas is unusual in Pasir Ris Park. The sighting has raised awareness of the importance of preserving the park’s ecosystem and protecting the endangered species that call it home.
National Parks Board’s group director for Parks East, Chia Seng Jiang, confirmed that the board was alerted to the sighting of the banded krait and that staff had visited the site, but the snake was not found at the location at the time.
Image from The Strait Times | PHOTO: JIMMY HOON
What to Do When You Encounter Snakes in the Park
If you encounter a snake in a park, it’s essential to keep calm and keep a safe distance. Remember that snakes are generally not aggressive and usually try to slither away from humans. However, if the snake feels threatened, it may become defensive and potentially dangerous. Here are some tips on what to do if you encounter a snake in a park:
- Stay calm and maintain a safe distance from the snake. Snakes are generally not aggressive and will only attack if threatened or provoked.
- Do not attempt to touch, handle, or corner the snake. This may cause it to become agitated and potentially strike.
- If the snake blocks a path, give it a wide berth and detour around it. Avoid making sudden movements or loud noises that may startle the snake.
- Alert other park visitors to the presence of the snake so that they can also keep a safe distance.
- Respect the natural habitat of the snake and avoid disturbing it. Snakes play an important role in the ecosystem, and they help to control rodent populations and maintain a healthy balance in the food chain.
- Contact the park authorities immediately if you encounter a snake that appears injured or distressed. They will have the expertise and equipment to handle and relocate the snake, if necessary, safely.
Snakes are an important part of the natural world and should be treated respectfully and cautiously. Following these tips can help ensure your and the snake’s safety.
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