Jogger spots what they thought was a 10-foot python in the grass, and wildlife officers step in

A resident in Singapore got an unexpected reminder that wildlife and city life often overlap when they spotted a large python in a grassy patch while jogging.

What happened?

According to Mothership, a passerby contacted Singapore's National Parks Board after a jogger spotted the python, prompting local authorities to respond to the scene.

How Choon Beng, group director of the National Parks Board's Wildlife Management group, told the outlet that the agency was notified of the sighting in mid-July.

Video of the incident showed two park officers handling the snake at the location.

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Mothership reported that the animal was a reticulated python measuring between six and 10 feet long. It was safely removed and taken to the Center for Wildlife Rehabilitation for a veterinary assessment.

Why does it matter?

According to Mothership, National Parks Board officials said that reticulated pythons are native to Singapore and may be found in places like canals and major drains, including one near where this sighting occurred. The agency also said the snakes help keep rodent numbers down.

Developed areas can bring people and animals into close proximity, raising the chances of unexpected encounters. In situations like this one, even a nonaggressive animal can become dangerous if it feels cornered or threatened.

People who encounter a snake or other wild animals should keep a safe distance, stay calm, and slowly move away so the animal has room to retreat. They should not approach or try to handle snakes, since they may strike.

In most cases, the safest approach is to contact local wildlife officials or trained animal responders. These experts can properly assess the situation, protect both people and animals, and determine the best way to handle the encounter.

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