Snakes of Singapore: Field Notes From My Night Walks
Singapore is a small, crowded island, and it’s full of snakes. I’ve been photographing them on walks along the Central Catchment area, and this is my field guide: how to recognise them, which ones are venomous, and what to do if you meet one. Singapore has around 67 native snake species, and only seven of them are venomous. Most are shy and want nothing to do with you. Safety first Never try to catch, move or handle a snake. If one needs help, call NParks’ 24-hour Animal Response Centre (1800-476-1600) or ACRES (9783-7782). [verify the numbers are current] Stay calm and back away slowly. Snakes generally want to leave. Look before you touch. Check branches and railings before you grab them, and wear closed shoes. For a bite, go to hospital or call 995 straight away. Blue Malayan coral snake ( Calliophis bivirgatus ssp flaviceps ) This is the one everyone wants to see. It has a dark navy back, a powder-blue stripe along each side, a coral-red underside, and a bright red head...