Human- Wildlife Interaction (Conflict)

When humans meet wildlife, different types of interactions occur. Unfortunately, some of these also end up as face-offs and lead to detrimental outcomes, more often than not for the interacting fauna.

The recent story of Wild Boars (Sus scrofa) at Bishan-Ang Mo Kio park is one such case.

Wild boars are native to Singapore. Wild boars can weigh up to 100kg and have a lifespan of over 20 years. They are nocturnal, sleeping up to 12 hours in the day (no wonder your mum says you sleep like a pig during the holidays!) & are omnivorous in nature. The lack of natural predators has seen the numbers of this species increase over the years. Human development and increasing boar populations have lead to more encounters between humans and boars in recent times.

Though wild boars generally avoid conflicts with humans, they are known to attack when alarmed or threatened. The sharp tusks of the boars can cause serious damage to victims when the boars charge at them. One such unfortunate incident occurred at Bishan-Ang Mo Kio park a couple of years ago.