Bedok’s Backyard Beat: Civets Take Over the House
We’ve seen otters and macaques sneak into Singaporean homes, but guess what? The new kid on the block is a civet.
Where the trouble started
- Jalan Chempaka Puteh, Bedok – The place where the drama unfolds.
- First sighting back in 2018: a dead civet was found in a car park, apparently taken out by a canine friend.
- “In the weeks that followed, a second civet tried to make myself a home in my cabinet,” recalled Su, a 64-year‑old teacher.
The nightly burglar’s cravings
Since that first encounter, civets have turned his kitchen into an open‑eat‑throne zone, tossing around trash and defacing every corner they can reach.
How Su’s “Last Resort” strategy works
- Two years ago he bought a cage – “Just to stop them from destroying the house.”
- December 2020: Successfully trapped his first civet and called Acres (Animal Concerns Research & Education Society) for help.
- Last Saturday – A midnight catch added the sixth civet to the list.
- Every time he nets one, he drives a solid 20‑minute detour to Tanah Merah and releases it into the wild.
Health and safety concerns
Beyond the inconvenience, Su worries that these crafty critters might spread illnesses and potentially bring more complications home.
So next time you think your house is just a bit too peaceful, remember that Bedok’s backyard might be being picked as a new civet clubhouse.
Civets on the Roof: A Household Disaster Story
It seems the local wildlife has taken up a new hobby— breaking into houses and wreaking havoc. Patricia, a 62‑year‑old mother, shares her terrifying experience with these fluffy invaders.
What Went Wrong?
- Four to five sightings over the years with the animals stealing fruit and peeing in the living room.
- One instance when the civets leapt onto the house’s exterior pillars and used the antennas as a ladder to reach the roof.
- During a rooftop showdown, two civets fell through the ceiling and caused a structural mess that required a contractor.
- After the incident, one civet escaped through a window while the other hid—now under the toilet.
Financial Fallout
Patricia spent $2,000 on roofing repairs and is worried about the next chapter: nesting in the ceiling. The fear is real—these animals could transform her home into a civet loft.
Patricia’s Final Word
“I’m not just concerned about the money I’ve poured into this place; I want my ceiling—and my peace of mind—to stay beast‑free!”
For those living close to nature, take note: the next time you see a squirrel, double‑check the neighbors. And if you’re a homeowner, maybe consider treating your roof like it’s a VIP guest list—only the porch and sunshine allowed!
One attacked a pet bird
Civets Crash the Party: Chempaka Residents Face Unexpected Wildlife Intruders
In a town that’s normally more about weather than wildlife, Chempaka’s residents are finding their homes a bit too cozy for prowling civets. Chairman Zhong Wuwei, who’s also the unofficial wildlife ambassador for the area, spilled the beans to Shin Min about the increasing invasions by these furry bandits.
What’s Going On?
- About 10 complaints so far. That’s roughly ten houses with an unexpected guest this season.
- Five or six reports of civets breaking in over the past two–three years. And that’s not counting the ones we’re waiting to hear from.
- A heartbreaking saga: a resident’s beloved pet parrot met a grim fate after a civet surprise attack. The bird was rushed to a vet, but the tiny bird finally had to fly the personal flight.
- Residents, now wary, keep their bird cages locked indoors like treasure chests—just in case.
- Not a one‑off event: even Su, the bird-loving neighbor, has purchased a new cage to protect her feathered friend.
Rulebook Rules
Zhong’s not the only one with a defensive strategy. He’s talking straight with authorities, who reminded everyone that catching wild animals is illegal under the Wild Animals and Birds Act. It’s not just about the animals—releasing or feeding them is a no‑no too.
But the residents feel the need to protect their homes, so they’re walking the fine line between self‑preservation and legal boundaries.
2020 Amendment: Bigger Penalties for Mischief
When the law got a makeover in 2020, it tightened the screws. Now, if you’re caught feeding, releasing, trapping, or killing wild animals, the penalties are higher—because the lawmakers didn’t want to turn the wrong side of the wildlife fence into a giant playground.
So, if you’re in Chempaka, friendly reminder: keep your doors shut, and maybe give the civets a pass the next time they show up at your doorstep. Good luck, and stay safe!
What to do about civets invasions
Say No to Civet Guests: Quick Wins for Your Home
Close the Entryway
Step One: The NParks crew suggests sealing off any roof openings. If your roof’s a nice little Nesting Spot, those sneaky civets win.
Bright Lights, No Fight
If a civet still decides to “make yourself at home,” smack a spotlight on the roof—think of it as a little light show that will have them saying, “I’m outta here!”
Keep the Food Closet Vague
Don’t leave tasty grub where anyone (or any civet) can see it. Keep the windows shut if there’s food on display, and tuck away any leftovers. The less “yum,” the less “umm.”
Need a Civet Wrangler?
If you’ve got a permanent roommate or you notice a ‘little bit injured silhouette,’ ring up the NParks Animal Response Centre at 1800-476-1600. They’re ready to swoop in and decide whether the civet needs a getaway or a vet visit.
- Run into a civet stuck inside and it can’t leave on its own?
- Faint injury signs? Call them out.
Spare a Thought
Ever heard a story about a man who found a “civet cat” perched in his ceiling? Turns out, in Singapore, civets are quite the curious creatures. If you’re exploring ways to keep them away, get in touch with NParks or just read some eye‑opening tales—because, hey, even the most unexpected pets can teach us something about keeping our space cozy.
