Forum: Holistic, science-based approach used to manage crows

We refer to the forum letter “Prioritise education and preventive measures instead of culling crows” (Oct 22) and thank the writer for her feedback.

To manage invasive bird species such as house crows (Corvus splendens), the National Parks Board (NParks) adopts a holistic, science-based approach anchored by the following strategies: managing food availability, disrupting nesting opportunities and population reduction.

Apart from causing disamenities, crows can pose safety risks, particularly when they aggressively defend their nests or young. 

House crows also pose a threat to Singapore’s native wildlife. By reducing crow numbers, native bird species are less likely to experience predation of their young, which may improve breeding success. Studies have documented that house crows actively and often mob, harass and displace native species.

Our multi-pronged crow management efforts include direct population control with trapping and nest removal, food source reduction, habitat modification, and enforcing illegal bird feeding. However, as crows are highly adaptable to urban environments and can become trap-shy, crow shooting was introduced to augment these existing efforts.

Education and outreach also play an important role. NParks works with relevant agencies and town councils on efforts such as managing food waste at food establishments and bin centres, and advising town councils to schedule tree pruning to discourage the roosting of crows, and to remove their nests.

Members of the public are also reminded to dispose of food waste properly and refrain from feeding wildlife. 

We have also increased the maximum penalties for wildlife feeding offences under the Wildlife Act this year. Offenders can be fined up to $10,000 for their first offence of feeding any wild animal, and up to $20,000 and/or imprisonment for a term of up to 12 months for subsequent offences.

How Choon Beng
Group Director, Wildlife Management
National Parks Board