Coffee shop supervisor paints trapped mynas red, claims it repels birds

A myna bird caught in a rat cage and sprayed with red paint by a coffee shop supervisor has sparked accusations of animal cruelty.

The incident occurred on Dec 26, 2024, around 8pm, when the SPCA received a report about birds being captured at a coffee shop in Elias Mall, Pasir Ris.

Upon arrival, SPCA officers found two mynas trapped inside a cage. Questioning the coffee shop supervisor revealed that this wasn't the first time he had caught birds; he had previously sprayed them with paint before releasing them.

Photos shared by the SPCA showed a cage covered in red paint. The organisation demanded the supervisor release the mynas immediately, but he insisted on spraying them with red paint first. The SPCA suggested humane bird deterrents, such as bird-proof netting, but the supervisor was reluctant.

The SPCA emphasised that spraying paint on birds is both ineffective and harmful. The paint may contain toxic chemicals that could cause respiratory issues, skin irritation or other severe health effects.

Moreover, capturing and spraying birds subjects them to significant stress and suffering. Not only does the paint fail to deter birds, but it also constitutes unnecessary animal cruelty.

The supervisor, Mr Zhuo Qing Shan, explained to Shin Min Daily News that the cages were intended for catching rats, not birds.

He had placed six cages around the coffee shop near rat burrows, but the food inside sometimes attracted mynas instead.

The 67-year-old also claimed he never intended to harm the birds and had only heard that spraying red paint on mynas would prevent them from returning.

"I tried it a few times, and it seemed to work, but I didn't expect SPCA officers to show up and demand their release," he said.

The SPCA recorded the supervisor's actions and reported the case to the Animal & Veterinary Service (AVS).

On Jan 9, AVS issued a warning letter instructing the supervisor to stop capturing birds, as his actions violated the Animals and Birds Act.

Mr Zhuo stated that he still uses the cages to catch rats, but if a bird is accidentally trapped, he will release it immediately and will no longer spray paint on them.

He also mentioned that while the SPCA had asked him to release the birds, his lack of English proficiency may have led to communication issues.

Additionally, he claimed to have enquired with the authorities about setting up bird-proof netting.