August 16, 2021, 09:21 PM
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An equatorial spitting cobra, one of Singapore's most venomous snakes, was recently seen at a muslim cemetery in Choa Chu Kang.
But being a creature that prefers to avoid confrontation, it moved away after a grave builder asked it to not disturb them at work.
Equatorial spitting cobra sighted
The scaly reptile was seen by one grave builder, and the video of the encounter was subsequently shared by another grave builder, Ramzul Ihsan, on the Singapore Wildlife Sightings Facebook group on Aug. 13.
Covered by the tall blades of grass, this slender, black snake can go unnoticed easily.
At the one-minute mark of the video, the black spitting cobra stood erect and had its hood raised in defence.A cobra flattens its neck when threatened, or provoked, to appear larger to predators.
These serpents are also known to hiss loudly, and spray venom from its fangs, and the venom can reach as far as one metre away, in such scenarios.
Man asked cobra to not disturb, it agreed
Speaking to Mothership, Ramzul said snakes are "everywhere" at the muslim cemetery.
However, he said that there have been no incidents of snake attacks so far, based on his knowledge.
In the video, one of the grave builders can be heard negotiating for peace with the equatorial spitting cobra.
He was heard saying, "We are going to do our work, don't disturb us".
Image screenshot from Singapore Wildlife Sightings/Facebook.
The negotiation seemed to have gone well.
At the end of the video, the cobra at the columbarium appeared to slither away from a tombstone, and into the surrounding grass patch.
Warns visitors to watch their step
The video has created some discussion among members in the group.
Ramzul, himself, is of the stance of leaving snakes alone. Some commenters also spoke up for snakes.
Image screenshot from Singapore Wildlife Sightings/Facebook.
Ramzul explained that he hopes to caution those visiting the cemetery with the video. Particularly those who visit the older blocks with tall grass should watch their step and be very careful.
In addition, he suggested visitors to make noise to alert the snakes of human presence.
He said, "Please do be very careful, and make noise, not to shoo them off, but to let them be aware of your presence."
Highly venomous, but only if provoked
The black spitting cobra, or equatorial spitting cobra, is a commonly found species that is native to Singapore.
The venom from black spitting cobras might cause discomfort, or even temporary blindness if the venom were to enter the eyes.
However, the black spitting cobra, which is typically non-aggressive, will only attack, if provoked.
Generally, snakes would "rather not encounter humans" and are "generally timid", according to the National Parks Board (NParks) and Acres.
This species of cobra is diurnal, which means it is mostly active in the day.
Locally, the black scaled snake is common in scrubland and suburban areas. It preys on small creatures like frogs and small rodents.
If you ever encounter an equatorial spitting cobra, or any other snake, keep calm, do not approach, or confront it, and keep your distance.
For more information, you can visit NParks's advisory or Acres' advisory on snake encounters here, and here.
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Top image from Singapore Wildlife Sightings/Facebook and Animalia website.
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