Birds in Gardens by the Bay reportedly poached through tree branches smeared with glue, investigations ongoing

Birds reportedly poached with glue in Gardens by the Bay

On Friday (18 Oct), Animal Concerns Research and Education Society (ACRES) uploaded photos of several birds that have died from glue traps on their Facebook page, flagging concerns of poaching using glue.

Speaking to MS News, ACRES confirmed that the poaching happened in Gardens by the Bay, where extensive wildlife resides.

Four birds have died after being caught in the glue traps in the span of two months.

Two of the cases were reported on 11 Aug, which found three birds dead.

A third case was reported a month later on 30 Sep, which found one bird dead.

Gardens by the Bay has acknowledged the situation, and a spokesperson told MS News they have been working closely with authorities to put more deterrents in place.

“Gardens by the Bay does not tolerate or condone any acts of poaching,” the spokesperson said.

Setting up more deterrents against poaching

The species of the birds that died during these three incidents of poaching include a white-throated kingfisher, two olive-backed sunbirds and an oriental magpie robin.

Of these, the oriental magpie robin is considered an endangered species, as they are commonly poached for their singing abilities.

Gardens by the Bay has begun stepping up deterrent measures against poaching. This includes:

• Increasing the frequency of patrols
• Installing CCTV cameras at hotspots
• Trimming low-hanging branches to deter poachers from setting up traps

They are also enlisting the help of ACRES to train their staff to look out for signs of suspected poaching. This includes the presence of trapped and caged birds, and equipment such as nets, ropes, and glue.

Seeking assistance from the public

On top of stepping up deterrent measures, both Gardens at the Bay and ACRES also urge members of the public to be on the lookout for signs of poaching.

“Glue is typically dark-coloured and is often applied to bare twigs or tree barks, where unsuspecting birds may perch,” ACRES wrote in their post.

People who spot suspected poaching attempts can document evidence in the form of photos or videos if possible.

They can also try to record the plate number of any vehicles that appear to be associated with poaching equipment.

Most importantly, ACRES emphasised that they should not attempt to remove any trapped birds without guidance, as this can cause further harm.

Members of the public who encounter any poaching activities can alert Gardens by the Bay’s staff or security, or call NParks hotline at 1800 476 1600.

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Featured image adapted from ACRES on Facebook.