Sambar deer killed in Mandai Road accident involving truck and motorbike

A multi-vehicle accident involving a delivery truck, motorbike, and a sambar deer occurred along Mandai Road on 2 December.

The Singapore Civil Defence Force (SCDF) confirmed to Mothership they were alerted to the incident at 6:40am and conveyed one person to Woodlands Health for medical treatment.

The accident resulted in the death of a male sambar deer, according to Love Sambar, a Facebook page advocating for the species. The page shared photos of the aftermath, including one showing the deer lying in a pool of blood.

It was also reported that the National Parks Board (NParks) said that the deer was already dead when their team arrived. The carcass has since been cleared.

Discussions about speed and driver awareness

In response to online queries, the Love Sambar administrator clarified that the vehicle was likely not speeding, as the speed limit on Mandai Road is 70km/h. They noted that this speed is sufficient to cause fatal injuries to a 150kg deer upon impact.

A commenter, however, pointed out that adhering to speed limits does not ensure drivers are vigilant.

They emphasised the importance of reducing speed and maintaining a reaction distance to allow time to respond to animals crossing. The administrator agreed that public education on cautious driving remains a challenge and added that no onboard camera footage was available to determine the vehicle’s exact speed.

Wildlife behaviour and crossing risks

The administrator explained that the deer was attempting to cross towards the forested Seletar Reservoir area when the accident occurred, suggesting it may have become disoriented.

Another commenter raised concerns about why the deer was not contained within a gated area, but the page clarified it was trying to return to the forested side.

Second fatality on Mandai Road in 2024

This incident marks the second sambar deer fatality on Mandai Road this year. The first occurred on 14 July near the Mandai Bus Depot junction.

Both deer were male, and the Love Sambar administrator observed that roadkill incidents involving the species have disproportionately involved male deer, which they described as “more reckless.”

Calls for improved signage

Online discussions included suggestions for better signage to warn motorists of wildlife crossings.

One commenter expressed hope for additional signs to prevent similar tragedies, while others emphasised the need for drivers to take personal responsibility by reducing speed near forested areas.

Driver actions commended

According to the Love Sambar page, the driver and motorcyclist involved in the accident stayed to assist with investigations. Public commenters commended their response, though some expressed concern about whether the driver had sufficient time to react to the deer.

NParks urges caution

NParks reminded motorists to stay alert when driving along roads near forested areas and adhere to posted speed limits.

The agency also advised against handling injured wildlife directly and encouraged the public to contact their 24-hour Animal Response Centre at 1800-476-1600 or submit feedback through www.avs.gov.sg/feedback.

This accident highlights ongoing challenges in balancing road safety and wildlife conservation along Singapore’s forested corridors, underscoring the importance of collective efforts from motorists and authorities alike.