A crocodile was spotted near Yishun Dam this week, promoting the National Parks Board (NParks) to issue a public advisory. A video shared on Instagram by user @sgfollowsall captured the reptile gliding along the edge of a canal near the dam on January 6, 2025. In fact, this is the second sighting of a saltwater crocodile in Yishun since July.
In the January 6 video, pedestrians can be seen walking and relaxing close to the waterway, seemingly unaware of the crocodile’s presence. NParks placed warning signs around the area to advise the public to stay away from the water’s edge for safety – in response to the crocodile sighting. Additionally, they cautioned against provoking or feeding the crocodile.
Other crocodile sightings
This incident marks yet another crocodile sighting in Yishun after a video of a saltwater crocodile cruising through the water in Yishun Dam in Singapore went viral on Facebook. The unusual sighting was posted on the Singapore Wildlife Sightings Facebook group by Facebook user Wilson Toh on July 8.
The viral video sparked widespread concern and interest among the public with more than 1000 users sharing the video. Toh stated that he saw the creature on the morning of July 7 and that he ”always comes here” but has never seen a crocodile. See the video here.
The specific area where the crocodile was spotted is a dam separating the freshwater of Lower Seletar Reservoir and the saltwater of Johor Strait. Perhaps, it’s the same crocodile in both incidents?
Although, these two sightings of crocodiles are not isolated incidents. In fact, there has been previous reports of crocodiles in the Yishun area with a notable sighting of a 1.7 metre crocodile at Lower Seletar Reservoir in 2019.
Other crocodile sightings have occurred in places like Sungei Buloh Wetland Reserve where fences have been installed to prevent them from climbing on footpaths. Additionally, there was a crocodile spotted at Marina East Drive in 2023 but this crocodile was subsequently put down by the National Parks Board due to significant risk to public safety.
Has there been crocodile attacks in Singapore?
Although crocodile sightings are rare in Singapore. These viral videos are an indication that they do exist. As of today, there have been no documented crocodile attacks on humans in Singapore.
The only species of crocodile native to Singapore is the Estuarine Crocodile. This crocodile is also known as the saltwater crocodile. Interestingly, they are among the largest crocodile species in the world. Some can reach up to 6 metres or more in length. Normally, they inhabit freshwater areas such as the coast, rivers, estuaries, and wetlands. Meanwhile, they are nocturnal hunters and primarily feed on fish but may also consume mammals, birds, and carrion.
What to do if you spot a crocodile?
The public must be aware of potential risks of such wildlife. There are warning signs in areas where crocodiles frequent.
Never approach or provoke these types of animals. Contact the authorities or agencies like NParks and PUB if you see a crocodile in places with high human activity. These agencies are responsible for monitoring, relocating, and capturing such wildlife if necessary to ensure public safety.
SEE MORE: These Are The Rarest Animals To See Around Singapore