Yishun resident and monitor lizard greet each other while out on their nightly exercise

Stomper Jagadeesan was not the only one exercising in the great outdoors in Yishun on Tuesday evening (Nov 24).

A monitor lizard was also out on its nightly prowl.

The two encountered each other at the void deck of Block 413 Yishun Ring Road at around 8.10pm.

Jagadeesan, a resident at the block, recounted: "I had just finished jogging and was returning home when I saw something moving.

"I was a bit scared at first until I realised it was a monitor lizard.

"It's my first time seeing a monitor lizard in the area."

Jagadeesan said the reptile might have come from Yishun Park, adding: "I guess it found its own way back to the water afterwards."

According to the National Park Boards (NParks), here's what you should and should not do if you encounter a monitor lizard:

• Do not be alarmed. These animals are shy and will not attack humans unless provoked or cornered.

• Do not touch, chase or corner them as they may attack in defence. You are advised to leave them alone. It is fine to observe them from afar.

• Seek medical attention immediately if (in a rare event) you are bitten. Although monitor lizards do secrete venom, it is not fatal to humans. The main cause for concern would be bacterial infection from the bite.