Photographer Captures Rare Sighting of King Cobras Mating at Sungei Buloh

In Singapore, the lion may be the symbolic king, but in the dense forests, the king cobra reigns supreme. Rarely seen, let alone observed during mating, the elusive king cobra typically stays hidden, only emerging occasionally for prey. Yet, on the morning of October 1, wildlife photographer Ted Ng had the once-in-a-lifetime experience of witnessing two king cobras mating at Sungei Buloh Wetland Reserve.

Ng described the event as a surprise, explaining that visitors were initially focused on a male cobra spotted near the path. Moments later, a female emerged from the leaves opposite them, extending her distinctive hood and startling onlookers who hadn’t realized she was so close. “We were shocked,” Ng told Mothership, as the male and female quickly sensed each other and began their mating ritual.

The mating process, captured on video by Ng, took place along the mudflats, lasting nearly an hour. As the tide began to rise, the pair moved upward and eventually separated. “I was very, very excited,” Ng shared, noting this was his first time witnessing such an event in his seven years of wildlife photography.

Classified as vulnerable by the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN), the king cobra is both an iconic and threatened species. Ng emphasized that he and other visitors maintained a safe distance throughout the encounter, respecting the advisory from the National Parks Board (NParks) to keep calm and avoid disturbing wildlife. Snakes are generally shy and avoid conflict unless provoked. NParks advises anyone who encounters a snake to keep a safe distance and leave it alone. In cases requiring assistance, the public can contact NParks at 1800-476-1600.