I recently came across a poignant scene that moved me and made me reflect on human interactions with crows. Upon walking home, I chanced upon a baby crow standing alone under the relentless rain, likely fallen from its nest, eagerly waiting for its mother to return. I then placed it in a box under the shelter. Hours later, it was still standing in the box, patiently waiting for its mother. Eventually, it hopped to the open and loud cawing from other crows could be heard as if they were exclaiming; they had found the baby. It moved me as it reminds me that crows are not so different from us humans. And it saddens me to imagine that the mother crow is being shot down. It would never be able to return to its young and the young would be left waiting, unable to fend for itself.

Crows are incredibly intelligent and emotional beings. They possess the ability to remember human faces and have been known for their acts of gratitude towards those who show them kindness, and conversely, they react defensively towards those who do harm. They are fiercely protective of their young and have been observed to hold 'funerals' for their dead. Such intelligence and capacity for emotion deserve our respect and thoughtful consideration in how we address growing crow populations and human-crow conflicts.

The proposed shooting of crows is not only inhumane but unsustainable. It incurs a high cost, does not address the problems at its root causes, nor does it promote coexistence between humans and crows. Instead of resorting to violence, we can look towards more humane, ethical, and sustainable solutions.

There are numerous non-lethal methods used internationally that can help manage crow populations. First and foremost, the removal of food sources which the government has done a good job in implementing the return of trays and banning the feeding of birds. However, one needs to ensure the food at the tray return area is promptly cleared and trash containers with tight fitting lids are being used for food disposal. Secondly, the modification of habitats to make it less attractive to crows. Ms Anbarasi Boopal, ex co-chief executive officer of the Animal Concerns Research and Education Society (ACRES) suggested regular tree pruning since crows nest in dense crowns of trees. Thirdly, the use of humane harassment. According to Humane World for Animals, humane harassment can move crows who roost in undesirable locations. Playing of recorded crow distress calls at dawn or dusk and hanging of fake crow models can trigger a flock-wide fear response and are proven to be effective. Lasers, specifically green, low-to-moderate power beams, are also effective and humane tools for dispersing crows, reducing activity by up to 96% in agricultural setting. It works best in low-light conditions (dawn/dusk) and changing patterns. Last but not least, the use of contraceptive baits. Products like OvoControl (Nicarbazin) can interfere with egg hatchability and reduce their population significantly. 

To live harmoniously and decrease human-crow conflicts, we need to understand the behavior of crows and how to behave around them, highlighting the need for public education. According to Mr David Tan, an avian ecologist, "A crow will not attack a human unless it feels that humans are a threat to it or its offspring". It attacks to protect the nests, eggs and young fledglings that are learning how to fly on the ground which is instinctive for most animals. One can prevent crow attacks by avoiding nesting areas and take an alternative route, wear a hat or carry an umbrella. In the event of an attack, do not panic, move away quickly and do not retaliate.

I urge Minister Mr Chee Hong Tat and National Parks Board not to shoot the crows and adopt these humane approaches to control crow populations and decrease human-crow conflicts instead. Let us set a precedent for our younger generations on how to treat the animals that share our environment with understanding and compassion. As Jane Goodall said, "If children in early life learn to respect and care for animals, they're much more likely to be compassionate in their dealings with each other". Let us build a society that is tolerant and respectful of nature and wildlife, not only when it is convenient or profitable for us to do so.

Please join me in advocating for these intelligent birds who cannot speak for themselves by signing this petition. Your signature can make a real difference. Thank you!