Full Breakdown
Decline of Migratory Birds in Singapore Due to Human Activities
9/23/2025, 1:13:16 PM
Overview of the Decline
Recent studies indicate a significant decline in migratory bird populations stopping in Singapore, primarily due to human-induced threats such as hunting and the use of anti-bird nets in China and Southeast Asia. Ornithologist Yong Ding Li from BirdLife International has observed a drastic reduction in certain shorebird species, including the curlew and marsh sandpipers, at Sungei Buloh Wetland Reserve. In the mid-1990s, counts of Arctic-born curlew sandpipers reached 200 to 400 annually, whereas current sightings have dwindled to mere groups of three to five.
Key Findings from Recent Research
Research published in *Nature Ecology & Evolution* highlights that over 47,800 migratory birds are killed each year at 19 stopover sites along China's coast, where these birds refuel during migration. The study, led by David Wilcove from Princeton University, found that anti-bird nets, particularly those used in razor clam farms, account for more than 60% of the deaths among 39 species. For instance, the curlew sandpiper experiences a mortality rate of 1.21% of its migrating population, while the terek sandpiper faces nearly 10%.
Impact on Vulnerable Species
The decline is particularly alarming for species already under conservation threat. The far eastern curlew, with an estimated population of only 20,000, and the great knot, which numbers around 400,000 but is declining rapidly, are among the most affected. The presence of these species in Singapore has become increasingly rare, raising concerns about their long-term survival.
Proposed Solutions and Conservation Efforts
To mitigate these threats, researchers recommend that farms remove anti-bird nets after the razor clam harvest in late March and early April, prior to the peak of spring migration. Wilcove suggests that using nets with larger mesh sizes and visible flags could help reduce bird entanglement. Additionally, he emphasizes the need for stronger enforcement of hunting regulations, as hunting shorebirds is illegal in most countries along the East Asian-Australasian Flyway.
Dr. Yong noted that Chinese authorities and local organizations have begun to take action against the use of mist nets, which trap birds and bats. Efforts include restricting the sale of such nets on shopping platforms and conducting regular enforcement operations during migration seasons.
Criticism and Opposition
Despite these efforts, challenges remain. Critics argue that enforcement is inconsistent, and more comprehensive strategies are needed to address the root causes of habitat loss and direct human-caused mortality. The ongoing decline of migratory birds raises urgent questions about the effectiveness of current conservation measures and the need for international cooperation to protect these vital species.
Conclusion
The decline of migratory birds in Singapore is a multifaceted issue driven by human activities, particularly hunting and the use of anti-bird nets. As migratory seasons approach, the need for effective conservation strategies becomes increasingly critical to ensure the survival of these species along their migratory routes.
