APM captures 632 snakes in Kuala Terengganu from Jan to March as hot weather drives reptiles into homes and sites
PETALING JAYA: The Malaysian Civil Defence Force (APM) in Kuala Terengganu recorded the capture of more than 600 snakes in the first three months of this year, from January to March, due to the hot weather affecting the state, Sinar Harian reports.
Kuala Terengganu APM officer Major (PA) Muhammad Hanafi Hamdzah said the increase in reptile captures, including venomous species, is a recurring trend each year during the hot and dry season.
“A total of 632 snakes were captured during the period, compared with 556 in the same period last year.
“The increase is influenced by several key factors, including hot weather conditions that force these reptiles to seek cooler shelter,” he said.
He added that habitat disruption has also driven the animals into residential areas in search of refuge.
According to him, the most commonly captured species were king cobras, cobras and reticulated pythons, which are typically found in residential areas, construction sites and drains.
“The public is advised to remain vigilant against the threat of venomous snakes and to keep their surroundings clean to reduce the likelihood of such reptiles appearing.
“We hope the public will not attempt to capture snakes themselves, but instead contact APM or the relevant authorities for further action,” he said.
