Python found on SMRT bus in Woodlands captured on second attempt

Ten passengers were transferred onto another bus to continue their journey after a python was spotted on board a bus in Woodlands on Oct 21.

However, it took two attempts by the Animal Concerns Research and Education Society (Acres) to finally capture the elusive animal.

The bus captain of service 901M was driving along Woodlands Avenue 1 on Oct 21 when he noticed that there was a snake on board at 9.05pm, service operator SMRT said in response to queries from The Straits Times.

Service 901M loops around Woodlands. The route operates near Mandai Tekong Park and Vista Park.

Acres sent a rescue team after receiving a call for assistance but its officers could not find the snake despite conducting a thorough search of the vehicle. The following morning on Oct 22, Acres received a second call saying that the snake had been spotted again. Rescuers finally managed to find the animal resting beneath a seat at the back of the bus.

ST has asked SMRT if any passengers were affected on Oct 22.

In photos that Acres shared with ST, the cushions of two bus seats are removed, revealing the snake - identified as a juvenile reticulated python about 40cm long - coiled up under the seat.

The snake was safely rescued on Oct 22 and released back into its natural habitat, said Acres.

Acres chief executive Kalaivanan Balakrishnan said snakes are "naturally shy animals and tend to avoid human contact".

"The python is believed to have sought warmth, which may explain how it entered the bus through small gaps."

Mr Kalaivanan added that Acres usually receives cases of pythons in the undercarriage of vehicles, but rarely of snakes inside of them.

He advised members of the public to remain calm and keep a safe distance if they come across a snake or any wild animal in distress. They may contact the Acres Wildlife Rescue Hotline on 9783-7782 for assistance.