Aviary closed after culling

NST: The Bukit Merah Laketown Resort has decided to shut down its aviary after 249 exotic birds were culled by the Department of Veterinary Services two days ago.
"Until a cure is found for the bird flu threat, the aviary will remain closed," said resort general manager Calvin Ho.
"The issue here is not about money. The decision to shut down the aviary has everything to do with the emotional impact of watching these beautiful birds being captured for culling.
"These birds were like family to the resort staff. We took great care of them and felt joy in their presence. They gave the resort a special aura, and we were emotionally attached to them."
Ho was in Singapore when he was informed on Thursday evening that a veterinary team was arriving the same night to cull the birds.
He drove all the way back but by the time he arrived at the resort at 2am on Friday morning, the veterinary team had already taken away 122 birds to be culled.
"It really broke my heart. I saw members of my staff crying unashamedly. But looking at the larger picture, I told myself that the birds had to go."
The 249 birds culled were from 39 different species, some of which were bought by the resort and some donated to the Ecopark.
Among them were the Radjah Shelduck, the green-winged macaw, African spoonbill, and the Indian peacock.
Ho said the operation of the Ecopark would not be affected by the aviary closing down as there were other attractions for visitors.