In a groundbreaking initiative, Singapore's National Parks Board (NParks) is deploying lifelike plastic effigies of dead crows in a unique attempt to deter a growing population of house crows—an invasive species wreaking havoc across the city.

Crows Beware: The Strategy Behind the Effigies

The eerily realistic effigies, designed to mimic dead crows, are strung upside down from tree branches at popular roosting sites. Mr. How Choon Beng, NParks' Director of Wildlife Management, noted that the goal is simple yet clever: create a sense of danger that encourages these noisy pests to find a new haunt.

Trial in Action: Results So Far

Since their deployment in late 2023, NParks has strategically placed 15 of these decoys across eight hotspots within Singapore, where crow complaints have surged. Last year alone, NParks received nearly 7,000 reports related to crow disturbances, ranging from noise complaints to aggressive behavior.

A History of Success—But Will It Work Here?

Before Singapore's trial, similar efforts have seen success overseas. Studies from the US suggest that displaying dead crows can effectively disperse real ones for months. In Pennsylvania, researchers noted significant reductions in large roosting populations after hanging crows as a warning.

The Crow Problem: Growing Concerns

House crows thrive in urban environments and frequently scavenge at Singapore’s food courts and rubbish bins. Their droppings and aggressive behavior, especially during the fledgling season, pose serious sanitation and safety issues. Last year, several reports highlighted aggressive attacks on passers-by, including disturbing encounters at recognizable locations like Orchard Central.

Conservationists Weigh In

Experts from the Nature Society and Bird Society of Singapore recognize that while effigies might temporarily deter crows, it’s uncertain how long the effect will last as these intelligent birds adapt to their environment. Nevertheless, they agree that this strategy is preferable to more harmful methods like poisoning.

Comprehensive Measures to Curb Crow Populations

The crow effigies are just one facet of a broader strategy adopted by NParks, which includes relocating nests, food deprivation, and habitat modification to diminish the appeal of urban areas to these birds. Mr. How reassures the public that the approach is scientifically backed and holistic.

What You Can Do to Help

Residents are reminded to avoid feeding crows, as penalties can reach up to $10,000. Other preventative measures include managing water sources in yards and securing fruits that might attract these birds. Playing recordings of distress calls or hanging shiny objects may also help, though their efficacy may wane over time.

Stay Informed and Contribute

For those affected by aggressive crow behavior, NParks encourages feedback via their hotline or online forms, ensuring citizen involvement in wildlife management efforts.

As Singapore continues to innovate in urban wildlife management, the true test of the crow effigies will reveal not only their effectiveness but also the delicate balance of urban ecosystems.