Measures to Reduce Mynah Population in Yishun

Er Dr Lee Bee Wah asked the Minister for National Development (a) what is the population trend of mynahs in Yishun in the past three years; (b) what are the findings and results of the tree fogging pilot project in 2016 to deter mynahs in Yishun; (c) how does the Ministry enforce the laws against bird-feeding and, to date, how many perpetrators have been penalised; and (d) what other measures are being deployed to deter or reduce the mynah population in Yishun.

NParks only started localised surveys on the myna population at hotspots in 2019, so we do not have historical data to compare. But based on this survey, we estimate that there are currently about 800 to 900 mynas roosting at hotspots near Yishun Avenue 3.

The 2016 pilot in Yishun found that tree fogging had limited long-term effects as the mynas returned once the fogging stopped. Instead, NParks has been working with various stakeholders to implement a sustainable myna management strategy. This involves a holistic suite of measures such as habitat modification, and the reduction of food sources made available by humans.

Habitat modification involves the directional pruning of trees to discourage mynas from roosting in the affected areas and shepherd them away from residential areas. Roost trees may also be replaced with tree types that are less preferred by the mynas. These are trees with crowns that are less dense, but will still provide greenery and shade. These measures have been effective in reducing myna roosts in Potong Pasir and Ang Mo Kio. NParks is working with the Nee Soon Town Council to implement similar measures at Yishun.

Food made available by humans is also a key driver of myna population growth. In this regard, NParks monitors bird feeding hotspots and works with the Town Councils and NEA to carry out targeted enforcement operations. This includes the use of video surveillance to catch offenders in the act. In 2019, NParks issued 145 enforcement notices to bird feeders. NEA also works with food centres and coffee shops in HDB estates to ensure proper food waste management, as the presence of improperly disposed food waste exacerbates the situation.

Agencies will continue to work closely with the Nee Soon Town Council to manage the myna situation at Yishun. The public must also play its part by maintaining the overall cleanliness of the environment and not feeding wild birds.