Residents around Mei Hwan Drive in Singapore’s Serangoon Gardens area have been alerted after sightings of a highly venomous black spitting cobra, with the National Parks Board (NParks) continuing efforts to locate and safely relocate the snake.
NParks said contractors were activated after each reported sighting, but the cobra has so far not been found during the searches. The agency said it will continue monitoring the area and relocate any cobra that is subsequently spotted.
The snake, scientifically known as Naja sumatrana, is native to Singapore and can be found not only in forests and parks but also in gardens and urban areas where prey such as rats, frogs and other small animals are available.
Despite its highly venomous nature, NParks said the black spitting cobra is generally shy and prefers to avoid people. However, when threatened, it can raise the front of its body, spread its hood and hiss as a warning.
If the perceived threat continues, the snake can spray venom toward an aggressor. NParks said the venom can travel more than one metre and may cause significant eye discomfort and temporary blindness if it reaches the eyes.
The latest sightings are not an isolated occurrence. Other black spitting cobras have been reported at different locations in Singapore this year, including Pasir Ris Park, Kent Ridge Park and the Chinese Garden, highlighting how the native species can occasionally turn up in areas shared by people and wildlife.
NParks is urging residents not to approach, chase or attempt to handle the snake. Anyone who encounters it should remain calm, keep a safe distance and slowly move away, allowing the animal space to retreat.
Pet owners are also advised to keep their animals on a tight leash because dogs or other pets approaching the snake could provoke a defensive response.
Residents who require assistance with a snake can contact NParks’ Animal Response Centre at 1800-476-1600, which operates around the clock.
The situation also highlights the challenges of managing wildlife encounters in Singapore, where urban development exists alongside natural habitats. Authorities have stressed that snakes should generally be left alone when encountered in their natural environment.
For now, the black spitting cobra remains unlocated despite repeated searches.
The bigger question now is whether NParks will be able to locate and relocate the elusive cobra before another encounter occurs in the busy Serangoon Gardens neighbourhood.
