Skip to main content

Government officials will never ask you to transfer money or disclose bank log-in details over a phone call.

Call the 24/7 ScamShield Helpline at 1799 if you are unsure if something is a scam.

Animal and Veterinary Service (AVS)

Pigeons in Singapore

About pigeons in Singapore and what to do when you encounter them

Last updated 31 October 2025
A photograph of a pigeon standing on a parapet

What are pigeons? 

Measuring between 30 to 36cm long, pigeons are plump birds with short legs and a small head. They typically have a pale grey body with two black wing bands and an iridescent green and purple throat. However, black, pale, spotted, or brown varieties can also be observed in flocks. 

Distribution & Habitat 

Pigeons are an invasive species that have colonised many parts of the world, including Southeast Asia. The successful spread of pigeons worldwide can be attributed to their variable diet, high reproductive rates, and the availability of suitable habitats in urban environments. 

Behaviour 

Pigeons feed on a variety of food types such as seeds, fruits, worms and food litter. In Singapore, food waste from food establishments serve as a key food source for pigeons. “Mercy feeding” is also prevalent, thus providing another easy food source for these birds. 

Pigeons nest and roost communally in building crevices or ledges. These colonies can produce large amounts of excrement in urban areas. 

What should I do when I encounter a pigeon?

If you come across pigeons that are injured or distressed, call our Animal Response Centre at 1800-476-1600 and we will send professionals who are trained in handling and caring for wildlife to assist you.  

Please avoid handling the pigeon yourself as this may cause further stress or injury to the animal.  

Do not touch, chase, or corner the pigeon. 

Observe the pigeon from a distance.  

Do not feed the pigeon.  

Feeding increases its reliance on humans for food and changes its natural foraging habits. Feeding it may encourage it to approach people for food, sometimes turning aggressive. This also causes its population to grow at an unnatural rate, affecting ecosystems that it is a part of. Feeding of all wildlife in Singapore is also prohibited under the Wildlife Act. 

What is being done about the pigeon population?

NParks works closely together with the relevant agencies to carry out pigeon management efforts and ensure proper food waste management. Outreach efforts in the form of community engagement sessions, advisories, and standees are also employed to raise public awareness about the negative impacts of feeding birds. 

If you have further queries, please contact us through our online feedback form at https://www.avs.gov.sg/feedback. 

Photo by Bryan Lim