SINGAPORE — A highly venomous black spitting cobra reported near Mei Hwan Drive in the Serangoon Gardens area remains unaccounted for after searches by Singapore’s National Parks Board (NParks) failed to locate the snake.
NParks said contractors were activated following each reported sighting, but the cobra was not found during the searches. The agency will continue monitoring the area and plans to relocate the snake if it is sighted again.
The incident has drawn attention because the black spitting cobra, scientifically known as Naja sumatrana, is highly venomous. However, NParks stressed that these snakes are generally shy and prefer to avoid people.
Cobra Reported in Residential Area
The reported sightings occurred near Mei Hwan Drive, in the Serangoon Gardens area.
According to NParks group director for wildlife management How Choon Beng, contractors were deployed after each reported sighting to survey the area and look for the snake. Despite those efforts, the cobra remained elusive.
NParks said monitoring will continue rather than treating the snake as an indication that the area is unsafe for residents.
Black spitting cobras are native to Singapore and can be encountered not only in forested areas but also in parks, gardens and urban environments where prey such as rodents and amphibians are present.
Why the Species Has Drawn Attention
The black spitting cobra can adopt a defensive posture when threatened, including raising the front portion of its body, spreading its hood and hissing.
It can also spit venom when cornered or provoked, which is why authorities are urging members of the public not to approach or handle any snake they encounter.
Importantly, NParks describes the species as generally shy. The agency’s advice is therefore focused on giving the animal space rather than attempting to capture or confront it.
Similar Sightings Reported Elsewhere in Singapore
The Serangoon Gardens incident is not an isolated sighting.
CNA reported that a black spitting cobra was observed at Pasir Ris Park in March 2026, where a wildlife enthusiast spotted the snake near a trail. Public sightings have also been reported in locations including Kent Ridge Park and the Chinese Garden.
These sightings illustrate that encounters with native snakes can occur even in developed areas, particularly where suitable prey and habitat are available.
What Residents Should Do
NParks advises people who encounter a snake in a public area to remain calm, keep a safe distance and slowly move away, allowing the animal room to retreat.
The agency specifically cautions against approaching or attempting to handle the snake. Pet owners are also advised to keep their animals on a tight leash so they do not approach and potentially alarm wildlife.
Anyone requiring wildlife assistance can contact the NParks helpline at 1800-476-1600.
For now, the reported cobra has not been located. NParks says it will continue monitoring the Serangoon Gardens area and will seek to relocate the animal if it is sighted.
The episode is another reminder that Singapore’s urban environment overlaps with habitats used by native wildlife—and that a reported snake sighting does not mean residents should attempt to take matters into their own hands.
WWC ONE MEDIA G,A
