Written Answer by Ministry of National Development on pigeon problem in the vicinity of Sembawang Drive
Jul 13, 2015
Dr Lim Wee Kiak: To ask the Minister for National Development
(a) what is AVA doing to solve the pigeon problem in the vicinity of Sembawang Drive;
(b) how many complaints of bird nuisance have been received on the AVA hotline in the past 12 months and what action has been taken;
(c) whether AVA has carried out any study to understand the habits of these birds so as to find a long-term solution to the problem; and
(d) whether AVA is working with any non-government organisation to find ways to keep these birds away from urban built-up areas.
Answer:
In the past 12 months, AVA received 6,694 feedback on bird nuisance. Addressing bird nuisance requires cooperation and coordination amongst members of the public, the Town Councils, and government agencies including AVA and NEA.
AVA is the First Responder for animal-related feedback, and will then work with the relevant agencies on an appropriate and coordinated response. Specifically for the pigeon nuisance at Sembawang Drive, a successful response requires the pigeon feeders to cease their pigeon feeding activities. This requires public education and effective enforcement both by AVA and the Town Council. Separately, the Town Council will need to manage and control the pigeon population. We also require NEA to ensure proper food waste management at the food establishments, and enforce against littering offences. Community and grassroots leaders can help by educating residents not to feed the birds.
In 2012, AVA commissioned a study on the ecology and population management of mynahs by the Raffles Museum of Biodiversity Research (NUS), now known as the Lee Kong Chian Natural History Museum. The study was concluded in June 2013 and AVA is currently doing trials on the various recommendations in the report. For example, AVA worked with the Choa Chu Kang Town Council in February 2015 to install a bird deterrent gel as a trial. The preliminary results were promising as the gel deterred birds from roosting, reducing incidences of bird nuisance. If it is confirmed to be effective, AVA will work with relevant stakeholders to extend it to other sites.
Addressing bird nuisance requires joint efforts. In particular, it is important that residents do not feed birds and thereby encourage their population growth.