Written answer by Ministry of National Development on dealing effectively with overpopulation of birds in HDB estates

Nov 30, 2022

Mr Murali Pillai: To ask the Minister for National Development whether, in relation to the handling of complaints pertaining to overpopulation of birds in HDB estates, NParks should play a lead role in dealing with the complaints to ensure there is proper ownership and effective handling of the complaints.

Answer:

Town Councils (TCs) are generally responsible for managing residents’ feedback on disamenities, including those from pest birds such as pigeons and mynas.

2        NParks has been working closely with TCs and other agencies to address feedback related to pest birds, through upstream mitigating measures. For example, NParks advises TCs on the pruning of trees to discourage the roosting of birds, and shares best practices for pest bird removal operations. TCs can make use of their operating fund to implement these measures.

3        In addition, as bird-feeding and human-generated food sources are key drivers of pest bird population growth, NParks works with TCs to raise public awareness about the negative impacts of illegal bird-feeding. NParks also conducts surveillance and targeted enforcement against such acts, while partnering agencies and TCs to encourage proper food waste management by residents and food establishments.

4        Continued collaboration between TCs and agencies is key to effectively managing pest bird-related feedback. NParks will continue to advise and support TCs on such matters.

Issued by:    Ministry of National Development

Date         :   30 Nov 2022