Residents living near Block 750 in Yishun have reported a spike in aggressive crow encounters, with some individuals resorting to carrying umbrellas and wearing protective gear just to move around safely.
One household, in particular, has been heavily affected. A woman was reportedly attacked more than 10 times over a span of three weeks, according to accounts shared with Shin Min Daily News. The repeated incidents have raised safety concerns among neighbours, especially as the attacks appear to be escalating in frequency and boldness, reported Shin Min Daily News.
The woman recounted how the first encounter took place near the lift lobby of her HDB block. Since then, the birds have become increasingly aggressive, swooping down and targeting her head and ears whenever she steps out of her home.
Residents Take Precautionary Measures Amid Ongoing Threat
With the situation worsening, affected residents have begun adopting defensive measures to minimise the risk of injury. Carrying umbrellas has become a daily necessity, although some say even that is not entirely effective as the crows have been seen pecking at the umbrellas themselves.
To deter the birds, residents have improvised with various household items. These include placing pinwheels along corridors, setting up bamboo poles with cloth strips, and even hanging reflective objects such as CDs near windows and clotheslines to scare the birds away.
Others have altered their daily routines to avoid known hotspots. Some residents now use alternative lifts or avoid certain corridors altogether after witnessing crows flying into common areas, including upper-floor walkways.
Despite these efforts, the unpredictability of the attacks has left many feeling anxious, particularly elderly residents and families with young children.
Nesting Season Likely Behind Heightened Aggression
Authorities believe the aggressive behaviour is linked to nesting activity. According to advisories by the National Parks Board, crows are known to become territorial and defensive when protecting their nests and young.
Residents have observed nests in nearby trees, supporting the theory that the birds are reacting to perceived threats in their immediate environment. Experts advise the public to steer clear of areas where attacks are occurring and avoid lingering near potential nesting sites.
In cases where attacks persist, residents are encouraged to contact NParks’ Animal Response Centre for assistance. Additional preventive measures include securing food waste properly and installing bird deterrents such as spikes to reduce perching opportunities.
Crow Population Control Measures to Be Stepped Up
The surge in crow-related incidents comes amid a broader rise in complaints across Singapore. Feedback involving crow disturbances has increased significantly in recent years, prompting authorities to review and strengthen population management strategies.
The Municipal Services Office reported a sharp increase in crow-related feedback, while NParks highlighted a notable rise in aggressive behaviour cases. Nest removal and trapping efforts have also intensified, with thousands of nests cleared annually.
In response, the government has announced the resumption of controlled crow shooting operations starting from the second half of March. The move, previously halted in 2020 due to safety concerns, is being reintroduced as part of a multi-pronged approach to manage the growing crow population.
Minister for National Development Chee Hong Tat acknowledged past operational lapses but emphasised that stricter safety protocols and enforcement actions have since been implemented.
As authorities balance wildlife management with public safety, residents in affected areas are advised to remain vigilant and take necessary precautions while longer-term solutions are rolled out.