The Animal Concerns Research and Education Society (Acres) has filed a formal report with the National Parks Board (NParks) following the alleged mistreatment of a wild rooster by pest control personnel.
Footage Captures Alleged Mistreatment
The report follows the release of a 22-second video uploaded to Facebook on Wednesday, May 13. The footage depicts two pest control workers capturing a wild rooster and placing it into what appears to be a burlap sack.
In the clip, one individual is seen repeatedly tugging at the bird while It’s entangled in netting. The man then holds the rooster by a single wing to move it into a gunny sack.
Toward the end of the video, the staff member is seen flinging the sack into the back of a van.
The Importance of Humane Handling
Acres emphasized that while some members of the public may view chickens as a nuisance or “pests” in residential areas, they remain sentient animals. The organization noted that these animals are capable of experiencing injury, pain, fear, and stress.
The association asserted that proper handling is “not optional,” regardless of whether an animal is being culled or removed. According to Acres, “Humane handling standards exist to minimise unnecessary suffering throughout the process.”
Potential Next Steps
Following the report to NParks, authorities may investigate the conduct of the pest control personnel involved. Depending on the findings, this could lead to a review of the company’s handling procedures.
Acres has also urged the public to document any suspected animal cruelty or improper handling and report such incidents to the relevant authorities.
Frequently Asked Questions
What specific actions were captured in the video?
The video shows a man repeatedly tugging a wild rooster entangled in netting, holding the bird by one wing to place it in a gunny sack, and then flinging that sack into a van.
What is the position of Acres regarding the removal of “pest” animals?
Acres maintains that proper handling is mandatory even when animals are being removed or culled, as humane standards are necessary to minimize unnecessary suffering.
What legal framework applies to this situation in Singapore?
The Animals and Birds Act specifies that causing unnecessary suffering and pain to an animal may be considered an offence.
Do you believe current pest control standards provide enough protection for wild animals in urban environments?