Over 100 quail chicks found abandoned in Lim Chu Kang die despite rescue efforts

On 27 October, over 100 live quail chicks were discovered discarded in a green rubbish bin in Lim Chu Kang, according to a statement by the Animal Concerns Research and Education Society (Acres).

The animal welfare group shared the details in a social media post on 3 November, highlighting the distressing nature of the discovery.

The incident came to light when a concerned individual, hearing persistent chirping from the bin, contacted the Acres wildlife rescue hotline. Upon inspection, Acres rescuers found one chick perched on a black rubbish bag and detected more chirping from within. Further examination revealed 106 live chicks mixed with lifeless ones and unhatched eggs.

“This was a frustrating find for us,” Acres said, expressing their dismay at the outcome. Despite concerted efforts to save the chicks, none survived, showcasing the vulnerability of such abandoned animals.

The matter has been reported to the National Parks Board (NParks), which confirmed to local media that they had received feedback on the incident and had launched an investigation.

An NParks representative stated, “We will take action against anyone who has abandoned their pet, failed to provide adequate care for it, or has committed an act of animal cruelty.”

The abandonment of the chicks has spotlighted broader concerns regarding animal welfare and cruelty in Singapore.

The Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (SPCA) reported a significant rise in such cases, investigating 915 incidents in 2023 alone. This figure marked a 79 per cent increase from 2022 and was the highest in over a decade.

Under Singapore’s Animals and Birds Act, acts of cruelty to animals, including abandonment, can lead to severe penalties. Offenders found guilty may face imprisonment of up to 18 months, fines of up to S$15,000, or both. Such measures aim to deter acts that jeopardise the welfare of animals.

This case has drawn attention to the importance of the ethical treatment of animals. NParks and associated animal welfare groups continue to emphasise public awareness, urging individuals to report cases of animal neglect or cruelty.