Stomper almost steps on 'baby cobra' at Pandan Garden Park Connector
A Stomper was surprised when he came across a cobra at Pandan Garden Park Connector on Feb 2 at about 9.13am.
Stomper Wilson told Stomp that he was taking a stroll behind Yang Tao Yuan Sheng Hong Temple when he had a close call with the venomous snake near a tree.
"Luckily, I was alert and heard the 'sssssss' sound, otherwise I would have been bitten by the cobra," he said.
"It was a baby cobra and I almost stepped on it.
"It's very dangerous for children to hang around there."
It was the first time Wilson had spotted a cobra in the area.
He expressed concern that the presence of the small snake could indicate a larger population nearby: "Meaning to say that the tree must have a lot more."
Stomp earlier reported on a black spitting cobra that was spotted in a Bishan neighbourhood on the eve of Chinese New Year.
According to NParks, the black spitting cobra is commonly found in scrubland and suburban areas in Singapore.
The snake feeds on small animals such as rats and toads.
They are highly venomous and will raise the front part of its body when provoked, flatten its neck and hiss loudly.
If the warning display fails, it may eject fine sprays of venom from its fangs towards the eyes of its provoke. This spray can cover over one metre and cause discomfort and even temporary blindness if it enters the eyes.
NParks advises members of the public to observe them from a safe distance.
They are generally shy creatures and will usually try to slither away from humans. They will not attack unless disturbed or provoked.
Do not approach or attempt to handle the snake and leave it alone, especially if it is in its natural habitat.
Call NParks' 24-hour Animal Response Centre at 1800-476-1600 for assistance.
