NParks urges distance as Telok Blangah owl nest attracts crowds

SINGAPORE: A significant number of people have assembled near a large tree within the Telok Blangah estate to observe a family of baby Sunda Scops owls residing there.

The owlets have attracted attention from nature enthusiasts and curious individuals alike, leading to a noticeable increase in the size of the crowd.

Despite the undeniable charm of the baby owls, wildlife enthusiasts, photographers, and locals find it challenging to resist capturing their cuteness amidst the excitement surrounding the presence of the owls.

However, concerns have been expressed online about the disturbance caused by excessive photography.

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Pictures and videos of the owlets have flooded the Facebook group ‘Singapore Wildlife Sightings.’

Some individuals claim to have captured these images from a distance, ensuring minimal disturbance to the owls.

Nevertheless, images of the owls circulating on social media platforms have prompted a request for restraint from those near the tree.

Netizens are urging individuals to refrain from taking pictures of the owls, emphasizing the importance of respecting their natural environment and minimizing disruption to their habitat.

The Sunda Scops owl, identified as Otus lempiji, are native to Singapore, and known to nest in natural tree hollows and cavities.

The species is also classified as a “least concern species” on the International Union for Conservation of Nature’s (IUCN) Red List of threatened species.

ACRES urges respectful distance from wild owls in Singapore

On Tuesday, the Animal Concerns Research and Education Society (ACRES) issued a cautionary advisory urging people to maintain a respectful distance from wild owls in Singapore.

“While it’s incredibly tempting to capture those enchanting moments of wild owls in our urban jungle, their peace and quiet is very important when they are at a crucial phase of parenting – when the baby owls fledge and leave their nest.”

The organization cautioned the public that approaching a wild owl family, particularly during these critical moments, can jeopardize their well-being.

This period is essential for the fledglings as they learn crucial skills from their parents, including flying, feeding, and hunting.

ACRES further explained that when baby owls fledge, they heavily rely on their parents for guidance and protection.

However, the presence of humans in close proximity may cause the parents to hesitate in approaching a lost fledgling, potentially disrupting their natural development.

On Thursday, NParks informed Singapore’s Chinese media 8World News that upon discovering the nest on Monday, it promptly cordoned off the area surrounding the tree and installed signs advising the public to maintain a safe distance.

In addition, NParks strongly encouraged people to avoid visiting the site, emphasizing that large crowds and excessive noise could disrupt the natural behaviour of the owls and lead to undue stress.

“NParks urges the public to appreciate wildlife from a distance and refrain from interfering with their natural behaviours,” stated How Choon Beng, NParks’ group director of wildlife management.

“When photographing nesting birds, it’s important to maintain a respectful distance to allow them space and observe them in their natural habitat. ”

“Avoid feeding them or using artificial lures and calls to attract them, and refrain from using flash photography or shining lights, as it may cause distress to the birds.”

Individuals in need of assistance can contact the NParks helpline at 1800-476-1600.