25-07-2025
Oh deer, are they safe? Sambar herd spotted in Woodlands
Photos of a herd of Sambar deer have captured the attention - and hearts - of nature lovers in Singapore.
The images were shared on July 24 by Facebook user M Saniroz AR in the public group Singapore Wildlife Sightings, which has more than 134,000 members.
At press time, the post had garnered more than 1,500 reactions, 131 comments and 84 shares.
"Wild and Born-Free…Singapore Sambar Deer - a truly 'City In Nature'," the caption read.
Most commenters expressed delight at the rare sighting, with some asking where the deer were spotted and hoping to see them in person.
"This is incredible," remarked user Join SwimLah. "Good to see them thriving," chimed in another user, Mikail Yip.
"I want to see them, where are they?" asked Angela Takano.
Ogawa Konamoto was just as curious: "Just wondering, where is this place?"
Othman Ahmad jokingly replied: "Mandai Zoo."
The actual location, confirmed by M Saniroz AR in the comments, was Gali Batu Depot in Woodlands, about 6km from the Mandai Wildlife Reserve.
While many welcomed the sighting, others voiced concerns over the safety of the animals, with some suggesting the herd be relocated to more protected areas.
"So glad to see so many of them. Hope green patches are left untouched and they can thrive peacefully," wrote Rachel Seng.
"Great to see such (a) magnificent view for a small urban country like (ours) . Hope the Government can do something…to protect these animals from traffic," said Gordan Giam.
User Chua Wee Kirk suggested bringing some deer to the islands of Pulau Ubin or Pulau Tekong.
"I think Coney Island nicer. Don't need to take a boat there," replied Kenny Poh Chong Yuan.
Not everyone was optimistic. "If it were in another country, it would probably be a dish," commented Xano Aviary, without naming a specific country.
Still, with the outpouring of affection for the deer - or "deerly beloved", as some quipped - it seems unlikely they'll become sambal venison anytime soon.
Amid the lighthearted reactions, one commenter offered a sobering reminder.
"This isn't a promising sign. Sambar deer don't suddenly thrive in shrinking forests, nor do they casually wander into open spaces in broad daylight…and this behaviour likely means they've lost their home once again," wrote Gary Teo.
"When animals no longer have a safe and stable environment, they stop reproducing. Unless things change, future generations may never get the chance to see them in the wild."
