Pigeon Control and Coffee Comfort: A Tale of Urban Management and Community Spirit
May 23, 2025, 10:03 am
Location: Singapore
Employees: 201-500
Founded date: 2019
In the bustling heart of Singapore, two seemingly unrelated stories unfold: one of urban wildlife management and the other of a cozy home café. Both narratives reflect the city's commitment to community well-being, environmental stewardship, and the simple joys of life.
On one side, the National Parks Board (NParks) is tackling a pigeon problem that has long plagued the city. Pigeons, often seen as a nuisance, have been multiplying in urban areas, leading to unsightly messes and health concerns. The solution? A comprehensive pigeon management plan. This initiative, which began as a pilot program in 2024, has shown promising results. The initial phase in Ang Mo Kio, Bishan-Toa Payoh, and Tanjong Pagar saw a staggering 50% reduction in the pigeon population.
Now, the plan is set to expand to three more town councils: Jalan Besar, Marsiling-Yew Tee, and Nee Soon. The goal is clear: manage the pigeon population sustainably and effectively. Surveillance at feeding hotspots, community education, and direct population control measures are all part of the strategy. NParks has even enforced actions against illegal bird feeding, targeting those who unwittingly contribute to the problem.
But why the fuss over pigeons? They may seem harmless, but their droppings can damage property and pose health risks. The NParks initiative emphasizes the importance of reducing human-generated food sources, which attract these birds. By working with residents and local businesses, the program aims to foster a sense of community stewardship.
Meanwhile, in a different corner of Singapore, a heartwarming story brews at Brew With Grace, a home-based café in Sengkang. Here, a fluffy British shorthair named Totoro greets customers with the charm of a living maneki-neko. Owner Grace Teo has created a sanctuary for those seeking comfort in a cup of coffee.
Teo's journey to opening Brew With Grace is a testament to resilience. After experiencing burnout in her previous career as a 3D lighting artist, she sought solace in pottery and coffee. Her love for coffee blossomed during a pottery class, where she discovered the calming effects of a well-brewed cup. This revelation ignited her passion for creating a space that offers warmth and connection.
The café’s ambiance is inviting, with soft lighting and cozy furnishings that beckon visitors to unwind. Teo’s menu is simple yet delightful, featuring a selection of hot and iced coffees, alongside unique matcha drinks. Each cup is crafted with care, using high-quality ingredients, and offered at reasonable prices.
Teo affectionately refers to her customers as “lovelies,” and her café has become a haven for university students, couples, and anyone in need of a comforting space. The café operates on a takeaway-only basis, ensuring that each order is made fresh and that the atmosphere remains relaxed.
Both NParks and Brew With Grace embody the spirit of community engagement. NParks’ pigeon management plan fosters collaboration among residents, government agencies, and local businesses. It encourages public education about the impact of feeding pigeons and promotes alternative activities like community gardening and birdwatching.
Similarly, Brew With Grace serves as a gathering place where people can connect over coffee and share their stories. Teo’s commitment to creating a welcoming environment reflects her desire to bring light to those who may be struggling.
In a city where urbanization often overshadows nature, these two stories remind us of the delicate balance between human activity and wildlife. The pigeon management plan seeks to harmonize urban living with environmental responsibility, while Brew With Grace offers a slice of tranquility amidst the hustle and bustle.
As Singapore continues to evolve, initiatives like these highlight the importance of community involvement and the power of small businesses. They show that even in a fast-paced world, there is room for compassion, understanding, and connection.
In conclusion, whether it’s managing a pigeon population or brewing a comforting cup of coffee, both stories illustrate the beauty of community spirit. They remind us that even the smallest actions can have a significant impact. As we navigate the complexities of urban life, let us embrace the lessons learned from both NParks and Brew With Grace. After all, in a city that never sleeps, a little kindness and care can go a long way.
On one side, the National Parks Board (NParks) is tackling a pigeon problem that has long plagued the city. Pigeons, often seen as a nuisance, have been multiplying in urban areas, leading to unsightly messes and health concerns. The solution? A comprehensive pigeon management plan. This initiative, which began as a pilot program in 2024, has shown promising results. The initial phase in Ang Mo Kio, Bishan-Toa Payoh, and Tanjong Pagar saw a staggering 50% reduction in the pigeon population.
Now, the plan is set to expand to three more town councils: Jalan Besar, Marsiling-Yew Tee, and Nee Soon. The goal is clear: manage the pigeon population sustainably and effectively. Surveillance at feeding hotspots, community education, and direct population control measures are all part of the strategy. NParks has even enforced actions against illegal bird feeding, targeting those who unwittingly contribute to the problem.
But why the fuss over pigeons? They may seem harmless, but their droppings can damage property and pose health risks. The NParks initiative emphasizes the importance of reducing human-generated food sources, which attract these birds. By working with residents and local businesses, the program aims to foster a sense of community stewardship.
Meanwhile, in a different corner of Singapore, a heartwarming story brews at Brew With Grace, a home-based café in Sengkang. Here, a fluffy British shorthair named Totoro greets customers with the charm of a living maneki-neko. Owner Grace Teo has created a sanctuary for those seeking comfort in a cup of coffee.
Teo's journey to opening Brew With Grace is a testament to resilience. After experiencing burnout in her previous career as a 3D lighting artist, she sought solace in pottery and coffee. Her love for coffee blossomed during a pottery class, where she discovered the calming effects of a well-brewed cup. This revelation ignited her passion for creating a space that offers warmth and connection.
The café’s ambiance is inviting, with soft lighting and cozy furnishings that beckon visitors to unwind. Teo’s menu is simple yet delightful, featuring a selection of hot and iced coffees, alongside unique matcha drinks. Each cup is crafted with care, using high-quality ingredients, and offered at reasonable prices.
Teo affectionately refers to her customers as “lovelies,” and her café has become a haven for university students, couples, and anyone in need of a comforting space. The café operates on a takeaway-only basis, ensuring that each order is made fresh and that the atmosphere remains relaxed.
Both NParks and Brew With Grace embody the spirit of community engagement. NParks’ pigeon management plan fosters collaboration among residents, government agencies, and local businesses. It encourages public education about the impact of feeding pigeons and promotes alternative activities like community gardening and birdwatching.
Similarly, Brew With Grace serves as a gathering place where people can connect over coffee and share their stories. Teo’s commitment to creating a welcoming environment reflects her desire to bring light to those who may be struggling.
In a city where urbanization often overshadows nature, these two stories remind us of the delicate balance between human activity and wildlife. The pigeon management plan seeks to harmonize urban living with environmental responsibility, while Brew With Grace offers a slice of tranquility amidst the hustle and bustle.
As Singapore continues to evolve, initiatives like these highlight the importance of community involvement and the power of small businesses. They show that even in a fast-paced world, there is room for compassion, understanding, and connection.
In conclusion, whether it’s managing a pigeon population or brewing a comforting cup of coffee, both stories illustrate the beauty of community spirit. They remind us that even the smallest actions can have a significant impact. As we navigate the complexities of urban life, let us embrace the lessons learned from both NParks and Brew With Grace. After all, in a city that never sleeps, a little kindness and care can go a long way.