An avid birdwatcher has questioned NParks\u2019 decision to close a nature trail at Sungei Buloh Wetland Reserve following a king cobra sighting, calling the move an \u201cover-reaction\u201d.<\/p>\n
Speaking to Stomp, Myron Tay said he was at the Butterfly Trail near Neo Tiew Crescent car park at about 12pm on March 21 to spot a bird when he spotted a king cobra curled up beside the boardwalk.<\/p>\n
Shortly after, he realised the trail had been closed. <\/p>\n
\u201cIt was a bird that I have been looking forward to see and photograph. It is called the forest wagtail,\u201d explained the 52-year-old retiree. <\/p>\n
\u201cI also found out from the NParks officer that closed the trail that the reason for the trail closure was the presence of the king cobra.\u201d<\/p>\n
Mr Tay snapped a photo and posted about the incident on Facebook<\/a>, questioning the need for the closure. He suggested that visitors could instead be allowed entry at their own risk, such as by signing an indemnity form.<\/p>\n He added that driving could be more dangerous than encountering a snake. <\/p>\n \u201cSo for the same reason for closing off trails where snakes were encountered, why not ban access to certain roads as a matter of public safety?\u201d he asked. <\/p>\n Mr Tay told Stomp that the cobra appeared to be \u201cin a relaxed state of rest\u201d beside the boardwalk. <\/p>\n He claimed that visitors were advised not to linger around the area, \u201ceven though the snake was not doing anything\u201d.<\/p>\n \u201cI think the whole episode is an over-reaction by NParks and a missed opportunity,\u201d he said, calling for a \u201cmore considered approach to such closures\u201d. <\/p>\n He also suggested that such encounters could be used to educate the public about wildlife and snake behaviour.<\/p>\n According to an NParks advisory<\/a>, members of the public can call the Animal Response Centre at 1800-476-1600 if they come across snakes that are injured, distressed or trapped. The public is also advised to avoid touching, chasing, or cornering snakes. <\/p>\n Netizens were split over Mr Tay\u2019s views, with some criticising his stance.<\/p>\n One said he should \u201csuggest solutions which are practical\u201d instead of criticising authorities. <\/p>\n \u201cI think the point is to let every adult decide for themselves. Closing the trail is the lazy way out,\u201d Mr Tay responded. <\/p>\n Others disagreed more strongly.<\/p>\n \u201cIf a fatal death happens, you won\u2019t be the one held responsible for the public outcry,\u201d one netizen wrote.<\/p>\n Another pointed out that other visitors may have reported abnormal behaviour from the snake. <\/p>\n \u201cThere is a reason for everything and let\u2019s not be a hero at the wrong time and place,\u201d the netizen added. \u201cBe contented if someone takes the extra effort to (ensure) your security and safety.\u201d<\/p>\n Another netizen noted that while king cobras are generally non-aggressive, closing the trail is understandable as a precaution, though measures like warning signs could be considered instead.<\/p>\n \u201cIt is a good reminder that we share our green spaces with wildlife \u2014 and that giving them space is often the best and safest approach.\u201d<\/p>\n However, some supported Mr Tay, stressing the importance of moving towards a \u201cculture of informed coexistence (rather) than taking an easy way out\u201d. <\/p>\n Editor\u2019s note: This story has been updated to include information from an NParks advisory.<\/em><\/p>\n Have something to say? Join in!<\/p>\n<\/div>\n See something interesting? Contribute<\/a> your story to us.<\/p>\n Explore more on these topics<\/p>\n<\/div>\n\u2018You won\u2019t be held responsible for the public outcry\u2019: Netizens disagree<\/h2>\n
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