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MEET OUR NATIVE WILDLIFE : PARADISE TREE SNAKES

Paradise tree snakes are arguably the most colorful native snakes in Singapore. They usually have a combination of black, red and green colors on their scales. Their colorful appearance often make people think they are highly venomous but the opposite is true. They have short fangs that are located at the back of their jaw. Their venom is strong enough to help them be effective lizard hunters but not powerful enough to have any effect on humans.

They can be commonly found throughout Singapore especially in mangroves and forested area with coconut palms. As tree dwellers, they have evolved a special way of travelling from one tree to another. They jump! They do this by sucking in their guts to forming a concave shape along the entire length of their body. Despite their unique adaptation, they are not good at controlling their flight and would often clumsily crash onto the next tree or the ground. It is for this reason that they are also known as paradise gliding snakes.

The ACRES wildlife rescue team regularly receives calls for paradise tree snakes who get stranded in residential areas. They would choose to move away instead of putting up a fight. However like all wildlife, they would only defend themselves when provoked or threatened.

Here are some tips if see a snake in your house.

1.Do not attempt to catch or harm the snake. Snakes,

venomous or not,would rather not pursue a human unless

provoked. Keep a distance of at least 2-3m. They play an

important ecological role in controlling the lizard population among

other small animals. It is important that we learn to co-exist and

appreciate our native fauna.

2.If you are unsure of the species, you can send the photo our 24hr wildlife rescue hotline 97837782 for advice. We will advice accordingly and remember to keep an eye of the movement of the snake from a distance. Give the snake the freedom to move around. That includes allowing it to move out of the compound if necessary.

3..Donate if you can. We are still raising funds to get a new van. Please donate at https://www.giving.sg/acres/keepthedrivealive

SG Snakes App:

Apple: https://itunes.apple.com/sg/app/sg-snakes/id669392463?mt=8

Android: https://play.google.com/store/apps/detailsid=com.codigo.snakesofsingapore&hl=en

Source: https://www.facebook.com/ACRESasia/photos/a.223077136522.136..

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ACRES

ACRES (Animal Concerns Research & Education Society) is a pioneering Singapore-based charity and Institution of Public Character, founded by Singaporeans in 2001 with the aim of promoting animal welfare.

ACRES has six focus areas: Wildlife Rescue and Rehabilitation, Wildlife Crime Investigation, Zoo Animal Welfare, Humane Education, Community Outreach and Promoting Cruelty-Free Living.

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