Recently, a heartbreaking incident occurred at a bus stop on Yio Chu Kang Road, where a woman was attacked by a wild boar late at night while waiting for the bus. The National Parks Board stated that the wild boar involved had broken hind legs and was subsequently euthanized. However, while we sympathize with the victim, we must not overlook a critical question: Are we genuinely protecting wildlife?
As native wildlife in Singapore, wild boars’ living spaces are increasingly being squeezed by urbanization. Human activities are continuously encroaching on their habitats, leading to a reduction in the wild boars’ living areas and an increased likelihood of contact with humans. Under these circumstances, conflicts between wild boars and humans are inevitable.
In the face of such incidents, we should seek a balance that protects both human safety and the welfare of wildlife. Although the wild boar was deemed the aggressor in this case, we must not neglect their rights as living beings. After all, they, too, are striving to adapt to a world shared with humans.
We need to critically examine our efforts in wildlife protection. Merely choosing to “euthanize” after a conflict arises is not a fundamental solution to the problem. We should consider the ecological needs of wildlife in urban planning and provide them with sufficient living spaces. Additionally, we should enhance public education on wildlife protection, raise ecological awareness, and promote harmony between humans and wildlife.
In this incident, while we must be concerned about the victim’s safety, we should also reflect on humanity’s attitude towards and protection measures for wildlife. Let us work together to safeguard the rights and welfare of all living beings on this land and create a harmonious home.
