KOTA BARU: The state Civil Defence Department has captured nearly 3,000 snakes of various species between January and last month.
Its director Colonel Mohd Adzhar Mujab said most of the snakes, including venomous ones, were caught in February. He believed the reptiles had emerged from the forests due to the hot and dry weather.
"In the first three months of this year, we have captured nearly 3,000 snakes in a series of operations nationwide.
"February recorded the highest number of cases with 1,073 snakes captured, followed by January (991) and March (934).
"We suspect that during the current hot weather, most snakes will hide in cooler areas such as under bricks, bushes and around houses," he told reporters at the breaking of fast event here last night.
Adzhar said among the species are pythons, king cobras and monocled cobras. He added that all these snakes had been handed over to the Wildlife and National Parks Department to be released back into their habitats.
"I would like to remind house owners to take extra caution, especially this Hari Raya season as many from outstation will return home to celebrate the festival.
"We do not want any unwanted incidents happening to their families. Therefore, please make sure the surrounding areas are clear," he added.
