Forum: Public must show it disapproves of pigeon feeding

I refer to the article “Singapore residents who repeatedly feed wildlife illegally to face jail, stiffer fines” (May 7). Most Singaporeans know that feeding wildlife, especially pigeons, is illegal and anti-social. But there may be some who are still not aware.

I was reminded of this at a hawker centre recently, where I saw an elderly man collecting leftover food on an old newspaper. He later walked to a nearby open field, carefully unwrapped the leftovers and began scattering them to feed the pigeons.

The incident highlighted how good intentions can have unintended consequences. For some, feeding animals is tied to beliefs about earning merit of divine favour. While the intention is to be compassionate, the outcome is harmful: overpopulation, disease, and an unnatural diet that hurts the birds.

We need a two-pronged approach. Enforcement sets clear boundaries, and respectful engagement can help dispel misconceptions.

As members of the public, we should not be mere spectators when we witness such acts of illegal pigeon feeding. A disapproving community can do more to deter behaviour than posters alone. People can remind feeders that such acts are illegal and ask them to remove the food so as not to attract other animals like rats. 

Stronger penalties send a message. Consistent social norms will ensure it sticks.

Harry Ong Heng Poh