A crocodile has been spotted in Pandan Reservoir, prompting authorities to suspend water activities while search and capture operations are carried out.
The national water agency PUB said it was alerted to the sighting at around 3pm on Thursday (20 August). Following the report, PUB informed the National Parks Board (NParks), which is assisting with efforts to locate the reptile.
Based on a photograph of the animal, NParks believes it is likely to be an estuarine crocodile. The species is also commonly known as the saltwater crocodile and is capable of growing to significant lengths.
Estuarine Crocodile Believed To Be In Reservoir
Estuarine crocodiles are regarded as the largest crocodile species in the world, with some individuals capable of reaching up to 7m in length.
Despite their name, the reptiles are not restricted to seawater. They can inhabit both brackish and freshwater environments, including wetlands and coastal areas. In Singapore, they may be found around areas connected to the Straits of Johor and the Straits of Singapore.
The reptiles can be particularly difficult to spot because they spend considerable amounts of time submerged in water. Their brown colouring can also provide effective camouflage when they are on land.
According to information from NParks, estuarine crocodiles mainly hunt fish at night. However, members of the public are advised not to approach or interact with any crocodile encountered in the wild.
Water Activities Suspended At Pandan Reservoir
Following the sighting, PUB has temporarily suspended water activities at Pandan Reservoir as a precautionary measure.
The agency has informed the Singapore Rowing Association (SRA) and Singapore Canoe Federation (SCF), asking both organisations to halt activities at the reservoir.
These include kayaking, canoeing, canoe polo, dragon boating and rowing. SCF also operates a public paddling centre at Pandan Reservoir, meaning the suspension could affect members of the public who regularly use the facility.
Meanwhile, NParks and PUB are conducting search and capture operations to locate the crocodile.
Authorities are also installing warning signs around the reservoir to alert visitors about the sighting and remind them to remain vigilant.
Public Urged Not To Approach Crocodile
Members of the public who spot the crocodile should remain calm and slowly move away from the animal. They should not attempt to get closer for photographs or videos, and should never provoke or feed it.
Anyone who encounters the reptile can report the sighting to NParks at 1800-476-1600 or PUB at 1800-2255-782.
The latest sighting highlights the importance of taking extra precautions around Singapore’s reservoirs, waterways and coastal areas, particularly when a potentially large wild animal has been reported nearby.
Until the search operation is completed and authorities determine that the area is safe, visitors should follow official advisories and avoid entering the water at Pandan Reservoir.