Move comes as complaints and crow population rise sharply
Crow shooting operations will resume in Singapore from the second half of March 2026 to complement existing measures aimed at managing the growing crow population.
Complaints Triple Since 2020
The National Parks Board (NParks) said house crows are an invasive, non-native species that pose a threat to biodiversity.
Since crow shooting operations ceased in 2020, authorities have relied on trapping, removal and nest management to control the population. However, NParks noted that both crow numbers and public complaints have increased significantly.
The Case Were Increasing
Crow-related feedback received by the Municipal Services Office rose from close to 5,000 cases in 2020 to about 15,000 cases in 2025.
Reports of crow aggression increased from over 460 cases in 2020 to more than 2,000 in 2025.
In 2025, about 9,000 crow nests were removed islandwide, compared with over 600 in 2021. The number of crows trapped and removed also rose from more than 1,800 in 2021 to over 13,000 in 2025.
Safety Protocols Strengthened
NParks said it has worked with the Ministry of Home Affairs and the Singapore Police Force to review and strengthen safety protocols.
Measures include ensuring shotgun pellets are directed upwards at all times, cordoning off shooting zones with clear signage, and deploying additional personnel to manage public access during operations.
The operations will be carried out by licensed wildlife management contractors certified in firearm handling.
NParks said the progressive resumption will allow authorities to refine safety procedures before scaling up operations.
Past Incidents Addressed
Minister for National Development Chee Hong Tat said crow shooting had been part of population control efforts until 2020.
He acknowledged that previous incidents involved pellets striking nearby buildings due to human error and non-compliance with safety protocols. Enforcement action was taken against the officers involved.
Mr Chee said continued growth of the crow population could affect residents’ safety, prompting the decision to resume shooting as one of several control measures.
Public Role In Managing Crow Population
NParks urged the public not to feed crows and to dispose of food waste properly to prevent population growth.
Under the Wildlife Act, individuals caught feeding wild animals, including crows, may face a fine of up to S$5,000 for a first offence and up to S$10,000 for subsequent offences.
Authorities said the resumption of crow shooting, alongside trapping and nest removal, aims to reduce the crow population and address rising complaints, while ensuring enhanced safety measures are in place.
Sources: Mothership (2026) , CNA (2026)
Keywords: Crow Shooting Singapore 2026, NParks Crow Management, Crow Complaints Singapore, Wildlife Act Feeding Fine, House Crows Invasive Species
