Sungei Buloh crocodiles unlikely to be a menace

I refer to the letter, “Assess threat of crocodiles at Sungei Buloh” (Dec 12).

Over the last 50 years, many wild animals in Singapore have become extinct, due to rapid urbanisation resulting in human encroachments on nature.

As a wildlife advocate since the ’80s, I have spotted several crocodiles in various parts of Singapore during my nature explorations.

Only some of the sightings were reported in the media.

Most notably, media attention on a crocodile at Pasir Ris led to its capture, due to the danger it might have otherwise posed to picnickers and park-goers.

However, in the case of Sungei Buloh, the park is gazetted as a nature reserve, which means more protection for its flora and fauna, as well as better facilities for the public to enjoy their visits.

The crocodiles there are usually found a safe distance from the walkway. Hence, the chance of an attack is almost negligible.

The small number of crocodiles in the reserve is another reason they are unlikely to be a menace. The warning signs that have been put up help to highlight their presence to the public and reduce danger.

Singapore does not have much wildlife left.

Still, we are perhaps fortunate to be able to see animals such as the Oriental smooth-coated otter, du-gong, slow loris, leopard cat, greater mousedeer, Malayan porcupine, wild boar and the estuarine crocodile (saltwater crocodile).

The re-emergence of crocodiles in recent years is a good sign that our rich biodiversity is attracting various fauna, and not only crocodiles.

I hope the ones in Sungei Buloh will be left alone in the wild for the public to enjoy as a learning session on our bio-heritage.