ACRES captures 2-metre python seen slithering in Choa Chu Kang HDB estate

A python spotted slithering into an HDB estate in Choa Chu Kang on Thursday (Oct 29) morning has been safely captured.

A resident who spotted the large snake around blocks 605 and 606 Choa Chu Kang Street 62 later posted photos and a video to a neighbourhood Facebook group.

The footage shows the python, which is about two metres long, slithering outside the void deck of Block 606.

The resident added that he had alerted the National Environment Agency and Animal Concern Research & Education Society (ACRES) to the sighting.

Netizens responded to the Facebook post, sharing their own photos that showed the python resting under a bicycle frame at Block 605. 

Another resident shared a photo of authorities capturing the snake at the site.

The Marsiling-Yew Tee Town Council also commented on the post, saying: "ACRES has attended to the situation and safely captured the snake. We appreciate everyone's concern, and thank you for your understanding!"

In response to AsiaOne's queries, National Parks Board (NParks) said its Animal & Veterinary Service (AVS) is aware of the sighting of a reticulated python (Malayopython reticulatus) in Yew Tee on Oct 29.

AVS has responded to the incident and captured the python, said NParks group director of wildlife management How Choon Beng.

"It was subsequently sent to Mandai Wildlife Centre for assessment. If it is found to be suitable for release, it will be released in a forested area away from human activity," he said.

According to NParks, the reticulated python is a non-venomous snake native to Singapore and can be found in a variety of habitats in Singapore, including canals and large drains as this location.

Pythons play an important role in regulating the ecosystem by keeping the population of pests, such as rodents, low.

One Facebook user pointed out that it was a relief the python had been caught.

"Luckily caught it! There is [a] kindergarten and epic school! Thank God!" the user commented. 

There are three preschools near the two HDB blocks, including THK EIPIC Centre @ Choa Chu Kang, Lianhe Zaobao reported.

An employee from the centre told the Chinese daily that she had arrived at around 6am and did not notice anything unusual at the time as it was still dark.

She added that she only heard noises at around 9am. 

The employee said that there were no children in the centre that day, but she was worried after hearing about the incident.

When they encounter a snake, members of the public should observe from a safe distance, stay calm and back away slowly, giving it space to retreat, NParks said in an advisory.

They are also advised to call the Animal Response Centre's 24-hour helpline at 1800-476-1600 for assistance.

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