Measures Adopted by NParks to Control Population of Birds in HDB Housing Estates
Ministry of National DevelopmentSpeakers
Summary
This question concerns bird population control measures in HDB estates to mitigate noise disturbances, as raised by Mr Zhulkarnain Abdul Rahim. Minister for National Development Desmond Lee explained that NParks uses a science-based approach involving habitat modification, food source reduction, and population control. Specific efforts include directional tree pruning, nest removal, and replacing tree species to deter roosting, alongside ecological studies to support management strategies. NParks also collaborates with agencies such as the Singapore Food Agency and National Environment Agency to manage food waste and enforce against illegal feeding. The ministry continues to partner with Town Councils to educate the community on refuse management and refine its bird management strategies.
Transcript
25 Mr Zhulkarnain Abdul Rahim asked the Minister for National Development (a) what are the measures adopted by NParks to control the population of birds in HDB housing estates or assist in the relocation of birds in a sustainable and humane way in order to reduce the noise disturbances caused to residents in areas where there is an over population of birds roosting in trees; and (b) whether NParks is studying other innovative ways or collaborating with other agencies in such measures.
Mr Desmond Lee: NParks adopts a holistic, science-based approach to manage the population of birds in Singapore, comprising measures, such as habitat modification, food source reduction and population control.
At HDB housing estates, NParks carries out habitat modification, such as the directional pruning of trees. The intent is to deter birds, such as crows and mynahs, from perching and to break up large roosts. NParks also works with Town Councils to remove the nests and to replace certain tree species with suitable ones to discourage roosting. In addition, NParks carries out studies to understand the ecology of birds, such as their roosting patterns and movements, to support its bird management strategies.
To reduce the availability of food sources, NParks works closely with SFA, NEA and Town Councils to encourage proper food waste management at food establishments around HDB housing estates and to enforce against littering and illegal bird-feeding. NParks also partners agencies and Town Councils to educate the community on proper refuse management.
NParks will continue to work closely with agencies to enhance its bird management strategies to reduce bird-related disamenities, such as noise disturbances caused to residents.