Poaching is the illegal taking of wild animals from their natural habitat.
In Singapore, the animals most commonly being poached appear to be birds for the pet trade (such as spotted doves, zebra doves, bulbuls and shamas), and also monitor lizards, pangolins and wild boars for their meat.
Some other types of animals, such as macaques or squirrels, may be taken from the wild by some people to be kept as pets.
Poaching can occur in any of Singapore’s green areas, including nature reserves and parks. Poaching activities have also been documented in areas around HDB flats and natural areas just outside the city.
Poachers trap animals using different types of equipment, including snares, traps, cages and nets.