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Feeding frenzy and rice left for stray dogs

on 13th December 2012

The following images show how different species of birds interact…

The image above was taken at Singapore’s Pasir Ris Farmway 3, showing, from left, a Baya Weaver (P. philippinus), an African Golden-backed Weaver (Ploceus jacksoni) and a Spotted Dove (Streptopelia chinensis), all feeding on a packet of rice.

The images above and below were taken further down Pasir Ris Coast Industrial Park 6. The Baya Weavers and Eurasian Tree Sparrows (Passer montanus) were having a feeding frenzy (above) and the party was abruptly broken up with the arrival of the Common Mynahs (Acridotheres tristis) (below).

Dog lovers tend to leave packets of rice for stray dogs in rural areas, sometimes even in parks. The rice will be eaten by the dogs or even birds, as Lim Sheau Torng found out in July 2012. Any uneaten leftover will be taken by insects like ants or eventually biodegrade. The problem arises when these packets of rice come in plastic bags that contribute to the bulk of plastic materials that remain as permanent trash until they are removed by cleaners or some volunteers. Should dog lovers read this, can they please wrap the rice in biodegradable materials or dispose the plastic bag properly so as not to unnecessarily pollute the environment?

Lim Sheau Torng
Singapore
November 2012

If you like this post please tap on the Like button at the left bottom of page. Any views and opinions expressed in this article are solely those of the authors/contributors, and are not endorsed by the Lee Kong Chian Natural History Museum (LKCNHM, NUS) or its affiliated institutions. Readers are encouraged to use their discretion before making any decisions or judgements based on the information presented.

YC Wee

Dr Wee played a significant role as a green advocate in Singapore through his extensive involvement in various organizations and committees: as Secretary and Chairman for the Malayan Nature Society (Singapore Branch), and with the Nature Society (Singapore) as founding President (1978-1995). He has also served in the Nature Reserve Board (1987-1989), Nature Reserves Committee (1990-1996), National Council on the Environment/Singapore Environment Council (1992-1996), Work-Group on Nature Conservation (1992) and Inter-Varsity Council on the Environment (1995-1997). He is Patron of the Singapore Gardening Society and was appointed Honorary Museum Associate of the Lee Kong Chian Natural History Museum (LKCNHM) in 2012. In 2005, Dr Wee started the Bird Ecology Study Group. With more than 6,000 entries, the website has become a valuable resource consulted by students, birdwatchers and researchers locally and internationally. The views and opinions expressed in this article are his own, and do not represent those of LKCNHM, the National University of Singapore or its affiliated institutions.

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