Written answer by Ministry of National Development on rewilding efforts by NParks resulting in wild boars recolonising more green spaces in Singapore

Apr 21, 2023

Question No: 2883

Question by: Mr Gerald Giam Yean Song

To ask the Minister for National Development (a) whether rewilding efforts by NParks have resulted in wild boars recolonising more green spaces in Singapore or whether the current trajectory of their population growth indicates they soon will; (b) whether wild boars pose risks to park and park connector users even if not deliberately provoked; and (c) how is NParks mitigating the risks posed by human-wild boar encounters.

Answer:

The wild boar population in our nature reserves has remained stable. This may be attributed to NParks’ habitat restoration efforts, such as the replacement of introduced oil palms (which are food sources for wild boars) with native vegetation. NParks will continue to monitor the wild boar population.

2        To minimise human-wild boar encounters and mitigate their risks, NParks adopts a community- and science-based approach to managing the wild boar population. This includes habitat modification and conducting studies to better understand their distribution. In addition, NParks works with public agencies and developers to erect hoarding to prevent wildlife such as wild boars from straying into nearby residential areas. NParks also implements population control measures where needed to protect public safety.

3        NParks also works closely with stakeholders on public education and outreach, to promote safe and responsible human-wildlife encounters. This includes discouraging and taking enforcement action against the illegal feeding of wildlife, which can alter their natural foraging behaviour and lead them to rely on humans for food.

4        Similar to other wild animals, wild boars can be unpredictable in behaviour, and can pose a risk to public safety even if not deliberately provoked. As wild boars primarily become aggressive when they feel cornered or threatened, members of the public are encouraged to remain calm and keep a safe distance if they encounter a wild boar. NParks will continue to engage the community on how to respond to wildlife sightings.