Snakes in Singapore: A Guide to Identification and Coexistence

Singapore is home to a diverse range of snake species, with over 40 species found on the island.

The most common species you'll encounter are the Banded Water Snake, the Keelback, and the Malayan Pit Viper, all of which are venomous.

These snakes are generally not aggressive and will avoid humans if possible, but it's still important to exercise caution when outdoors.

If you're out hiking or exploring the woods, keep an eye out for snakes in rocky outcrops, under logs, and near water sources, as these are their favorite habitats.

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Snakes are usually seen in urban areas due to the availability of food and shelter. I've seen this firsthand in my own neighbourhood, where the abundance of lizards and amphibians attracts snakes like the paradise tree snake and oriental whip snake.

Commonly encountered snakes such as the paradise tree snake, oriental whip snake, painted bronzeback, and common wolf snake (also known as common house snake) are known to feed on lizards and amphibians which are in abundance in our urban areas.

A larger snake, the reticulated python, is known to feed on and control the rodent population, which is a relief for many Singaporeans who live in urban areas.

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If you're living in Singapore, you might encounter snakes in your daily life, and it's essential to know what to do in case of a snake sighting.

The reticulated python is a non-venomous native snake that's often found in forests, but it's also commonly spotted in urban areas, including drains and canals.

To avoid encounters with snakes, it's best to check your surroundings, especially in areas with dense vegetation or near water sources.

The black-spitting cobra is another venomous species that's commonly found in urban areas, and it's known to spray venom targeting the eyes of perceived aggressors.

If you see a snake, stay calm and give it plenty of space to escape, as most snakes will not attack if they feel threatened.

The reticulated python's diet mainly consists of rodents, but it can also eat mammals like deer and boars, which can lead to conflicts with humans if they're attracted to food sources.

In case of a snake bite, seek medical attention immediately, and remember that the black-spitting cobra's venom can cause serious harm if not treated promptly.

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If you encounter a snake at home, the first thing to do is not to handle the animal. Call NParks' Animal Response Centre (1800-476-1600) or ACRES (9783-7782) for assistance.

Keep all family members and pets away from where the snake is, as snakes can be unpredictable. If a snake is found inside a room, keep all doors and windows that lead outside open for the snake to exit.

To prevent snakes from entering your home, it's essential to practice proper food waste disposal to keep rodents away. This is because snakes prey on rodents, and by removing their food source, you can discourage them from visiting your home.

You can also take steps to seal off potential entry points, such as installing wire mesh or acrylic panes at least 1m high, dug into the ground surrounding the property. This will help keep terrestrial snakes out, and also prevent rodents from nesting in your garden.

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Here are some additional tips to keep snakes out of your home:

If you encounter an animal in a public area, stay calm and back away slowly, giving the animal space to retreat. It's essential to respect the animal's space and not approach or attempt to handle it.

Some animals, like snakes, will not attack unless disturbed or provoked. Observe from a safe distance and leave the snake alone, especially if it's in its natural habitat.

Keep pets on a tight leash for the safety of both your pet and the animal. If you need assistance, call the relevant authorities, such as NParks' 24-hr Animal Response Centre (1800-476-1600) or ACRES (9783-7782).

If you're unsure about what to do, it's always best to err on the side of caution and keep a safe distance. This will help prevent any potential conflicts or harm to either you or the animal.

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If you encounter a snake at home, don't attempt to handle it. Instead, call NParks' Animal Response Centre (1800-476-1600) or ACRES (9783-7782) for assistance.

It's essential to keep all family members and pets away from the snake's location. This will prevent any potential harm or stress.

If a snake is found inside a room, opening all doors and windows that lead outside can help it exit safely. This is a simple yet effective way to encourage the snake to leave your home.

Improper waste disposal can attract pests that snakes prey on, so it's crucial to find out why the snake came to your area. This might involve checking your waste management practices and making adjustments as needed.

To keep snakes out of your home, start by practising proper food waste disposal. This will help keep rodents away, which in turn reduces the likelihood of snakes visiting your home.

Removing potential hiding places, such as unused pots or containers, holes, and gaps in your property, can also help deter snakes. Regularly inspect your home and yard to identify and eliminate these hiding spots.

Here are some additional tips to keep snakes out of your home:

Singapore is home to about 67 species of snakes, ranging from the brahminy blind snake to the reticulated python, which can grow to a length of more than 9m.

Some of the most common species include the Paradise tree snake, Wagler's Pit Viper, and Oriental Whip Snake. These snakes can be found in various habitats, including urban gardens, coastal areas, and forests.

The Paradise tree snake has a slender and cylindrical body, with a black upper side and a green or yellow spot on each dorsal scale. It's mildly venomous, but generally not problematic for humans.

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The ones to watch in Singapore's snake scene are the ones you don't want to step on.

The King Cobra is the largest venomous snake in the world, growing up to six metres long. It's rarely seen, but in May 2020, a four-metre specimen was spotted near Marsiling MRT.

The Banded Krait has black and white bands and a distinctive triangular cross section, usually seen in coastal areas. One turned up at the Chek Jawa boardwalk on Pulau Ubin in 2007.

Wagler's Pit Viper is the most commonly seen pit viper in Singapore, with males and females having quite different appearances and markings.

The Banded Wolf Snake is a rare species found in Singapore, and it's actually harmless despite its resemblance to the venomous krait.

This snake is one of the three wolf snake species known to exist in Singapore, and it's a great reminder that just because something looks scary, it doesn't mean it's a threat.

The Banded Wolf Snake is a relatively unknown species, and there's not much information available about its habits and habitat.

In fact, it's so rare that it's often mistaken for the venomous krait, which can be a source of concern for those who encounter it.

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Despite its rarity, the Banded Wolf Snake is an important part of Singapore's ecosystem, and it's worth learning more about this fascinating species.

It's a great example of how there's still so much to learn about the natural world, and how new discoveries can be made even in the most unexpected places.

The Speckle-Headed Whip Snake is a rare and elusive species.

Historically, it was thought to be found only in Bukit Timah Nature Reserve, but sightings in other parts of the island indicate its presence elsewhere.

This snake was discovered in the Botanic Gardens in 2017, showing that it may be more widespread than previously thought.

The Speckle-Headed Whip Snake is a member of the Ahaetulla genus, which includes other species that are also found in Singapore.

Singapore's tropical rainforest climate makes it an ideal habitat for many species of snakes, including venomous ones.

Most snake bites occur in rural areas where people are more likely to encounter snakes in their daily lives.

The most venomous snake in Singapore is the Malayan pit viper, which can be found in forests and grasslands.

If you're planning to venture into the woods, wear long pants, long-sleeved shirts, and closed shoes to reduce the risk of snake bites.

The Singaporean government has implemented measures to control snake populations, including culling and relocation programs.

Snakes are generally more active at night, so it's best to stay indoors during this time if you live in an area prone to snake sightings.

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