Consolidating and Reviewing Scope of Wildlife Management Strategies and Responsibilities

Ms Elysa Chen asked the Minister for National Development (a) how do wildlife management strategies differ across species, such as chickens, crows, pigeons, rats and monkeys; and (b) whether the Ministry will consider consolidating these strategies and responsibilities under a single agency to strengthen coordination, improve public communication, and ensure long-term effectiveness in managing human-wildlife interactions.

Ms Elysa Chen asked the Minister for National Development in light of ongoing collaboration between NParks and Town Councils on specific animal management matters such as pest birds, whether the Ministry will consider reviewing and expanding the scope of wildlife management responsibilities so that Town Councils may directly oversee broader wildlife issues within their estates.

The National Parks Board (NParks) adopts a science and community-based approach to overall wildlife management to ensure public safety and prevent disamenities. NParks assesses various factors such as the risks to public safety and health, as well as species' ecology and behaviour, to guide its species-specific strategies. These include measures such as direct population control, trapping and removal, and reduction of food sources.

At the local level, Town Councils (TCs) have a better understanding of the local living environment, and the issues are usually localised in nature. TCs may approach NParks for advice and assistance if they have specific wildlife related issues to manage. NParks will continue to support TCs for efficient wildlife management.