Factors Triggering Active Population Control of Otter Population and Measures to Safeguard Broader Ecosystem

Mr Cai Yinzhou asked the Minister for National Development (a) how many of the over 600 otter-related feedback cases received annually in 2024 and 2025 involved direct human-wildlife conflict; (b) what criteria and thresholds will trigger active population control including sterilisation; (c) what pilot studies or international case studies inform these considerations; and (d) what safeguards ensure such measures do not adversely affect the broader ecosystem.

Mr Chee Hong Tat: The volume of otter-related feedback cases has increased in recent years. In 2024 and 2025, about half of the otter-related feedback cases received by the National Parks Board (NParks) involved human-otter conflicts.

NParks partners stakeholders such as the Otter Working Group to develop and implement its otter management measures, which includes the use of sterilisation as a long-term population control measure, as well as stepping up outreach and public education efforts by installing advisory signages at identified conflict areas. NParks will continue to monitor the otter population and the ecological impact of measures implemented.