Follow us on Telegram for the latest updates: https://t.me/mothershipsg
NParks said that in the past 12 months, the agency had received about 200 feedback relating to cobra sightings in Singapore.
NParks was responding to queries by local Malay news agency Beritamediacorp after a viral video of an equatorial spitting cobra found at Blk 24 Pusara Aman, Muslim cemetery in Choa Chu Kang, was posted on Aug. 13.
In its response, it also said that the snakes do not attack unless being provoked.
As the name of the cobra suggests, it can also spit venom if it feels threatened.
The director of outreach and wildlife management of NParks, How Choon Beng, said that the snake which appeared in the video was possibly finding its prey such as rats and amphibians.
He added that these snakes actually play an important role in controlling the pest population in the area.
No reports of injury so far
Mothership spoke to the grave cleaner who posted the video online, Ramzul, who said that the snakes were "everywhere" at the Muslim cemetery.
He added that so far, there have not been any incidents of snake attacks to his knowledge.
Similarly, Beritamediacorp added that another grave cleaner by the name of Abu Hassan said that in his 15 years of working there he has encountered six to seven snake sightings.
He added that the snakes would usually come out after the grasses were trimmed.
He also confirmed that thus far, there has been no incidents of anyone injured due to snake attacks.
A possible reason for the number of cobra sightings in that area is the exhumation that has been taking place in phases for the expansion of Tengah Airbase.
It should also be noted that 200 reports of cobra sightings may not necessary equate to the presence of this many cobra individuals.
What to do if you encounter snakes?
According to NParks, if anyone encounters a snake, they should remain calm and keep a safe distance from it.
You can slowly move away from the snake. The snake will not attack unless it feels provoked.
NParks also cautioned people to not handle snakes by themselves.
For more information, you can visit NParks's advisory or Acres' advisory on snake encounters.
Top images via Ramzul Ihsan/Facebook