wild happenings in singapore: June 2009

22-28 Jun: Highlights of the week ahead

The last week of the school holidays and there are events every single day of the week!

For kids and the family

Chek Jawa walk with Cicada Tree Eco Place
Free Chek Jawa boardwalk tour with the Naked Hermit Crabs
MAD lessons on birds with Cicada Tree Eco Place
PrawnWatch at Sungei Buloh demonstration of traditional prawn farming
Scents & Sensibilities Children's workshop
Stories about Nature Drama workshop for kids
"Nature & Me" Drama workshop for kids
J Special Recycling a library event
Fun Adventure with Fruits and Veggies at the Botanic Gardens

Special shore events

Kusu Island Reefwalk with the Blue Water Volunteers
Horseshoe crab Rescue and Research
Marine guided walk at Labrador Nature Reserve
Chek Jawa walk with Cicada Tree Eco Place
Free Chek Jawa boardwalk tour with the Naked Hermit Crabs

Walks in wild places

Mangrove walks at Sungei Buloh on Saturday and Sunday
Guided walk at Evolution Garden

Other special events

Dog's Day Out at West Coast Park

Talks and meetings

Public Forum on the Origin of Species
"Darwin, Wallace, and Evolution" a talk at NUS
Green Drinks dangers of drycleaning and an eco-friendly clothes hanger

Registration now open

26 Jul (Sun): Chek Jawa walk with Cicada Tree Eco Place
18 Jul (Sat): Rainforest walk with Cicada Tree Eco Place
12 Jul (Sun): Sungei Buloh walk with Cicada Tree Eco Place
until 12 Jul: Sungei Buloh's first photo competition.
4 Jul (Sat), 15 Jul (Wed) and 19 Jul (Sun): MAD lessons on insects with Cicada Tree Eco Place

Visit the wildsingapore happenings blog for a full listing of upcoming events for the next three weeks and to search for events by your area of interest.

Photo of the week is this mousedeer shared by Marcus. Read more about it on his annotated budak blog.

IMG_1180, originally uploaded by budak.

28 Jun (Sun): Chek Jawa walk with Cicada Tree Eco Place

Living Earth Walks goes to the extensive boardwalk at Chek Jawa on Pulau Ubin. Here we shall see a diversity of unique flora and fauna. At low tide, exposed seaweeds used to be collected by locals to feed their pigs. From the mangroves, Attap Palm leaves were harvested for thatching while durable Nibong Palm trunks were used to build kelongs. The shallow sea here was also a rich hunting ground. Many natural resources were depended upon, and used in sustainable ways by the kampong folk who lived at CJ.

Trails: Wooden boardwalk. Earth paths, some parts with gentle slopes.

Minimum 20 pax for walk to go ahead.

Advance registration & payment is required. Register with Celine Low contact@cicadatree.org.sg

Time: 9am-noon
Cost: $15 per person (adult or child), minimum 6 years of age, excluding the bumboat ride and mini-bus ride to Chek Jawa. The bumboat ride is $2.50 per person one way. The mini-bus ride is $4 return per person to and from the main village.
Website: http://www.cicadatree.org.sg/
Contact: Celine Low contact@cicadatree.org.sg

28 Jun (Sun): Free Chek Jawa boardwalk tour with the Naked Hermit Crabs

The Naked Hermit Crabs introduce you to Chek Jawa without getting your feet wet. Enjoy the great view and find out more about rare coastal plants, cute fiddler crabs, aggressive mudskippers, sturdy mangrove trees, interesting bugs and more!

The free walk will be held every the last Sunday of the month.

Preregistration required.

A message from the Crabs:

Pre-registration is needed. Please write to nakedhermitcrabs@gmail.com and let us know how big your group is.

As always, we request that you come in small family and friend groups. We have only a couple of volunteer guides, so we can cope with a limited number of people for each trip. Thanks for your understanding!

Time: 3 pm meet at the Chek Jawa Info Kiosk
Duration: Two hours
Cost: no charge for now, but donations accepted.
Website: http://nakedhermitcrabs.blogspot.com/
Contact: nakedhermitcrabs@gmail.com

28 Jun (Sun): Dog's Day Out at West Coast Park

Ready to have woofing fun at the Park? Visit Dogs Day Out in the Park, happening at West Coast Park, Grand Lawn Area 3 next to McDonalds on 28 June. Lots of exciting activities happening the whole day!

There’s Dog-a-Jog, where first 300 to register take home a goodie bag.
“My Dog is Better than your Dog” Agility, Obedience & Talent Competitions
Catch the Canine Candid Camera at “Be Spotted”!
Top 3 Dogs get featured in Pets Magazine
Bring your dogs and witness agility demonstrations by Singapore Kennel Club
Fantastic bargains, cool products and services for man’s best friend and the family!

Time: 8am-5pm
Venue: West Coast Park, Grand Lawn, Area 3
Website and contact: http://www.nparks.gov.sg/

28 Jun (Sun): Mangrove walk at Sungei Buloh

Free guided nature walk along the Mangrove boardwalk under shady mangrove trees. Spot mudskippers, crabs and other marine life, learn about our mangroves, enjoy views of the Johor straits.

Suitable for young children.

Registration is not required for small walk-in groups. But each walk is limited to 15 persons per guide and is on a first-come -first-served basis. The walks are weather permitting and may merge with other activities at the Reserve. Those coming with large groups are advised to pre-register.

More about the Sungei Buloh Wetland Reserve on the wildsingapore website and Sungei Buloh Wetland Reserve website. This walk is conducted by the volunteer guides of NParks' Sungei Buloh Wetland Reserve and is held every Sunday morning, subject to availability of guides.

Time: 9.30 am (subject to availability of guides) for walk in guests, register at the Visitor Centre.
Tour duration: One to one-and-a-half hours. Suitable for young children.
Entry charges: While the walk is free, admission fees to the Reserve apply: $1 per adult, 50cents per child/student/senior citizen.
Website: http://www.sbwr.org.sg/
Contact: info@sbwr.org.sg or call 6794 1401

27 Jun (Sat): Kusu Island Reefwalk with the Blue Water Volunteers

Our wild and wonderful coral reefs are just too exciting to be enjoyed by divers only! Non-swimmers are most welcome, as we only visit the reefs during low tide, so you only expect to get wet around your ankles at most.

Trained and enthusiastic volunteer guides will introduce you to the marine life found on Kusu Island and share reef stories.

Suitable for children.

Pre-registration is required. To register, click on this link and fill up the form. Registration closes 19 Jun.

Time: 7-11am
Venue: Marina South Pier (subject to changes)
Cost: $15/person
Website: http://www.bluewatervolunteers.org
Contact: reefwalk@bluewatervolunteers.org

27 Jun (Sat): Scents & Sensibility - Children's workshop

The National Parks Board and Peranakan Museum presents a special introductory workshop on the colourful Peranakan culture.

Learn the significance of sireh and bunga rampai to the Peranakans and enjoy a guided walk in Fort Canning Park's Spice Garden where you can learn to make your own bunga rampai and roll a sireh quid!

For kids 8-10 years old. Registration required.

Registration and more details on the Pernakan Musuem website

Time: 2-4pm
Cost: $12
Venue: Peranakan Museum & Fort Canning Park
Website and contact: http://www.peranakanmuseum.sg/

27 Jun (Sat): Public Forum on the Origin of Species

In celebration of the 150th anniversary of the monumental scientific work of Charles Darwin "on the Origin of Species"

"The Evolution of Species Concept: Back to Darwin" by Prof Dr Brent Mishler, Director of the University and Jepson Herbaria, Professor of the Department of Integrative Biology, University of California Berkeley, USA.

"The Naming of Beasts, Counting of Dead Bodies and What Taxonomists REALLY Do!" by Prof Dr Peter Ng Kee Lin, Director of the Raffles Museum of Biodiversity Research and Tropical Marine Science Institute, Professor of the Department of Biological Sciences, the National University of Singapore.

Jointly presented by the Singapore Institute of Biology and the Science Centre Singapore.

More details and registration on the SiBiol website

FREE admission to Science Centre, Singapore (excluding Da Vinci Exhibition).

Time: 10am -1pm
Venue: Science Centre Singapore, Mendel Auditorium
Website: http://www.sibiol.org.sg/public_forum09.html
Contact: Dr Benito C. Tan at Benito_TAN@nparks.gov.sg

27 Jun (Sat): Prawnwatch at Sungei Buloh

Free guided introduction to traditional prawn farming. Go on a journey back to the past, where the history of Sungei Buloh Wetland Reserve as prawn and fish farms is one not to be ignored. The importance of mangroves as a spawning place and nursery for prawns and other life played an important role in shaping Sungei Buloh today. The traditional method of prawn harvesting will be demonstrated and how the tidal influence play a part in this activity will be brought to life.

The highlight is a real hands-on demonstration of a prawn harvest. The kids will be thrilled to check out what comes up with the net, see real live prawns and learn more about our seafood and the tides.

The walk is approximately 5km on wide earthen trails. Suitable for older children who are reasonably fit.

Registration is not required for small walk-in groups.

More about PrawnWatch on the Sungei Buloh website. More about the Sungei Buloh Wetland Reserve on the wildsingapore website and Sungei Buloh Wetland Reserve website.

Time: Meet at 9.30am at the Sungei Buloh Wetland Reserve Information Counter.
Tour duration: One to one-and-a-half hours. Suitable for older children.
Entry charges: While the walk is free, admission fees to the Reserve apply: $1 per adult, 50cents per child/student/senior citizen.
Website: http://www.sbwr.org.sg/
Contact: info@sbwr.org.sg or call 6794 1401

27 Jun (Sat): Horseshoe crab Rescue and Research

for Nature Society (Singapore) members only

Pre-registeration required: email Dr Hsu at hsu_chia_chi@hotmail.com, stating your name, if you are a NSS member or not, affiliations (eg. school / company), experience (if any) and contact details for this monthly mission to rescue and study the Mangrove Horseshoe Crab (HSC). We have also started an on-going HSC Training & Accreditation Programme for anyone keen to be a qualified HSC R&Rer. We recommend that you bring a cap, shoes/booties, sun block, insect repellent, cutter (for HSC rescue) and camera. Washing facilities available.

Time: 9am, meet at the extension of Kranji Road at the junction with Kranji Loop. Take bus 925 from Kranji MRT station and alight at the Chinese temple along Kranji Loop, cross the road and look for the nameless track that starts beside Leong Soon Pte Ltd (251 Kranji Road).
Website: http://www.nss.org.sg/
Contact: email contact@nss.org.sg or call 6741 2036.

27 Jun (Sat): Mangrove walk at Sungei Buloh

Free guided nature walk along the Mangrove boardwalk under shady mangrove trees. Spot mudskippers, crabs and other marine life, learn about our mangroves, enjoy views of the Johor straits.

Suitable for young children.

Registration is not required for small walk-in groups. But each walk is limited to 15 persons per guide and is on a first-come -first-served basis. The walks are weather permitting and may merge with other activities at the Reserve. Those coming with large groups are advised to pre-register.

More about the Sungei Buloh Wetland Reserve on the wildsingapore website and Sungei Buloh Wetland Reserve website. This walk is conducted by the volunteer guides of NParks' Sungei Buloh Wetland Reserve and is held every Saturday.

Time: 9.30am and 3.30pm for walk in guests, register at the Visitor Centre.
Tour duration: One to one-and-a-half hours. Suitable for young children.
Entry charges: While the walk is free, admission fees to the Reserve apply: $1 per adult, 50cents per child/student/senior citizen.
Website: http://www.sbwr.org.sg/
Contact: info@sbwr.org.sg or call 6794 1401

27 Jun (Sat): Guided walk at Evolution Garden

A free guided walk of this unique garden in the Botanic Gardens, that tells the story of how our plants came to be. An easy stroll on paved paths among strange plants.

Suitable for kids.

The 4pm tour is conducted in mandarin.

This walk is held every fourth Saturday of the month.

Time: 9am (English tour) 4pm (Mandarin tour)
Venue: Register at Visitor Centre before the tour starts.
Contact: Visitor Services 6471 7361

26 Jun (Fri): Marine guided walk at Labrador Nature Reserve

Take a walk with us at the rocky shore beach to learn about the rich and interesting marine flora and fauna. See the animals that exploit the environment, which created by an exposed rocky shore. Come join us to learn more about the only rocky beach in mainland Singapore!

Registration closes 1 day before the walk or when the the maximum number reached. To register, please contact Yuet Hsin at 62738602 or email toh_yuet_hsin@nparks.gov.sg

Time: 8.30-10am, meet at the Labrador Nature Reserve Carpark B
Cost: $4 per person (Maximum 15 pax)
Website and contact: http://www.nparks.gov.sg/

25 Jun (Thu): Stories about Nature - Drama workshop for kids

Through story, dramatisation and props provided to further ignite and enhance the imagination, children will learn about nature, its effects on our earth and how to show respect towards it.

For enquiry and registration, please contact the Education at 64719961 or nparks_sbg_edu@nparks.gov.sg . Online registration is available on www.sbg.org.sg (under "Education")

Suitable for children in P1 - P3 levels.

Time: 11am-noon
Venue: Jacob Ballas Children's Garden, Bukit Timah Core of the Singapore Botanic Gardens
Fee: $10 per child
Website: http://www.sbg.org.sg
Contact: 64719961 or nparks_sbg_edu@nparks.gov.sg

25 Jun (Thu): "Nature & Me" - Drama workshop for kids

Through story, dramatisation and props provided to further ignite and enhance the imagination, children will learn about nature, its effects on our earth and how to show respect towards it.

For enquiry and registration, please contact the Education at 64719961 or nparks_sbg_edu@nparks.gov.sg . Online registration is available on www.sbg.org.sg (under "Education")

Suitable for children in K1 - K2 levels

Time: 2-3pm
Venue: Jacob Ballas Children's Garden, Bukit Timah Core of the Singapore Botanic Gardens
Fee: $10.00 per child
Website: http://www.sbg.org.sg
Contact: 64719961 or nparks_sbg_edu@nparks.gov.sg

25 Jun (Thu): Green Drinks

Because you want to engage in a greater conversation about the environment, and steer it towards a positive outcome for the world.

This month, we have two speakers!

Wet cleaning specialists Green & Clean Laundry will talk about the dangers of perchloroethylene (aka Perc), a carcinogen used in dry cleaning, and the merits of wet cleaning technology.

In a related industry, Eco-conscious company bloomerang introduces bloomerHang, a hanger made out of sturdy recycled cardboard which doubles as an advertising medium.

Find out more about Singapore's first wet cleaners at http://gnclaundry.com/ , and the innovative guys at bloomerang at http://bloomerang.com.sg/

Time: 8-10pm
Venue: Food #03, 109 Rowell Road (Off Serangoon Rd in Little India) map
Website: Green Drinks Facebook Group
Contact: olivia@greendrinks.org

24 Jun (Wed): MAD lessons on birds with Cicada Tree Eco Place

Do birds sleep? What are the 10 most common birds in Singapore? Do all birds sing? How does a bird build its nest? What's Singapore's largest bird? If you're curious about Singapore's beautiful birds, join us for this lesson. We will share with you what we know about birds--where they live, what they eat, and how they protect themselves from predators. This MAD lesson will also include information about how you can be part of the solution to protect our environment and wild habitats.

For kids aged 5-10 years.
Registration required: email Celine Low contact@cicadatree.org.sg

Time: 2.30-4.30pm
Venue: Jacob Ballas Children’s Garden.
Cost: $15 per child which includes a badge and nature magazine.
Website: http://www.cicadatree.org.sg/
Contact: Celine Low contact@cicadatree.org.sg

24 Jun (Wed): J Special Recycling - a library event

Do you know what is recycling? Can you recycle paper, glass or empty cans? Join us in this hands-on session to learn about the importance of recycling and simple things you can do to make our environment greener. Children will also learn how to make an interesting craft from recycled materials.

Limited to 20 participants aged 4 to 8 years old.

Time: 3-4pm
Venue: Everest Room in Woodlands Regional Library
Cost: Admission fee is $2 per child. This programme requires registration and payment at our ekiosks.
Website and contact: http://golibrary.nlb.gov.sg/

23 Jun (Tue): Fun Adventure with Fruits and Veggies

Learn where healthy, yummy fruits and vegetables really come from in nature. Be amazed by the many different types of fruits and vegetables that we have in our Children’s Garden! Give your eyes a visual treat. Join us to learn amazing fruit and veggies facts.

Suitable for children in K1 - P6 levels

For enquiry and registration, please contact the Education at 64719961 or email nparks_sbg_edu@nparks.gov.sg. Online registration is available on www.sbg.org.sg (under "Education")

Time: 10-11am
Cost: $6 per child and $6 per accompanying parent
Venue: Jacob Ballas Children’s Garden, Bukit Timah Core of the Singapore Botanic Gardens
Website and contact: www.sbg.org.sg

22 Jun (Mon): "Darwin, Wallace, and Evolution" a talk at NUS

“Darwin, Wallace, and Evolution: Celebrating a major paradigm shift in science”

The year 2009 is the bicentennial of Darwin’s birthday, and 150th anniversary of the publication of his book “The Origin of Species”. Darwin’s theory of evolution is one of the major breakthroughs in the history of science and it is now generally accepted that “nothing in biology makes sense except in the light of evolution” (Dobzhansky).

Unfortunately, the contributions of another important British scientist, Alfred Russel Wallace, are less appreciated. Wallace had independently of Darwin developed a theory of natural selection and described his findings in a letter to Darwin in 1858. It was this letter that initiated the publication of “The Origin of Species” in 1859. Wallace conducted much of his research in Southeast Asia and collected biodiversity specimens throughout the region (including Bukit Timah Hill).

In celebration of these contributions, the Department of Biological Sciences will host this “Darwin, Wallace, and Evolution” public event and invite two prominent speakers – Dr. John van Wyhe from Cambridge University and Prof. Naomi Pierce from Harvard University will cover the historical aspects and illustrate how evolutionary theory is used in modern research.

“Darwin and Wallace 150 years on” by John van Wyhe

and

"From Darwin to DNA: Evolution of blue butterflies and ants” by By Naomi Pierce

This event is presented by the Department of Biological Sciences as part of their 60th anniversary celebrations.

More details on The Biodiversity crew @ NUS blog with update here.

Register at http://darwinwallace.rafflesmuseum.net

Time: 6:30pm, a buffet dinner will be served at 8.30pm.
Venue: Lecture Theatre 26, Science Drive 1 Faculty of Science NUS. If you are driving, park at carpark 10 (CP10), as car park 9 is closed for construction. Please enter along Science Drive 1, and cut across the canteen
Website and registration: http://darwinwallace.rafflesmuseum.net

15-21 Jun: Highlights of the week ahead

The school holiday fun continues with special events for kids and the family

MAD lessons on wild things with Cicada Tree Eco Place
Young Mathematician of the Gardens
Young Naturalist Passport Camp at Sungei Buloh
Native Plant Hunt at Hindhede Nature Park

Walks in wild places

Rainforest walk at the Bukit Timah Nature Reserve
Native Plant Hunt at Hindhede Nature Park
Mangrove walk at Pasir Ris Park
Guided walk at the Sensory Trail, Pulau Ubin
Mangrove walk at Sungei Buloh on Saturday and Sunday
Guided walk at the National Orchid Garden

for Nature Society (Singapore) members only

Butterfly Walk at Bukit Batok Nature Park

Registration now open

until 12 Jul: Sungei Buloh's first photo competition.
4 Jul (Sat), 15 Jul (Wed) and 19 Jul (Sun): MAD lessons on insects with Cicada Tree Eco Place
28 Jun (Sun): Chek Jawa walk with Cicada Tree Eco Place
27 Jun (Sat): Kusu Island Reefwalk with the Blue Water Volunteers
27 Jun (Sat): Scents & Sensibility - Children's workshop
26 Jun (Fri): Marine guided walk at Labrador Nature Reserve

Visit the wildsingapore happenings blog for a full listing of upcoming events for the next three weeks and to search for events by your area of interest.

I'd like to share these photos of our wild monkeys peacefully foraging for their wild food at Admiralty Park. Our monkeys are not starving. By eating their natural food in our wild places, these monkeys also disperse our native plants. Read more about this encounter on the wild shores of singapore blog. And please don't feed the monkeys.

Long-tail macaques (Macaca fascicularis), originally uploaded by wildsingapore.

21 Jun (Sun): MAD lessons on wild things with Cicada Tree Eco Place

In this hands-on lesson, kids go on a treasure hunt of pond life and birds, learn about dragonflies, butterflies and frogs, their ecology -- life cycle, where they live, what they eat, what may eat them. Kids also get to colour and make their own dragonfly/butterfly mobile. This MAD lesson will also include information about how you can be part of the solution to protect our environment and wild habitats.

For children between the ages of 5 and 10. Pre-registration is required, email Celine Low at contact@cicadatree.org.sg

Time: 9.30 to 11.30am
Cost: $15 per child which includes a lovely badge and nature magazine.
Venue: Singapore Botanic Gardens, Cluny Road (meet at Visitor Centre). Carpark entrance is via Nassim Gate at junction of Cluny Road and Nassim Road.
Website and contact: http://www.cicadatree.org.sg

21 Jun (Sun): Butterfly Walk at Bukit Batok Nature Park

for Nature Society (Singapore) members only

We will be taking a leisurely stroll in this park which is mostly made up of rubber plantations reclaimed by the forest. Butterflies found here include forest species like the Tawny Palmfly as well as urban species like the Striped Albatross, Sometimes one can even find the endangered Common Birdwing.

Please bring enough water and insect repellent as the walk will take about three hours.

Time: 9.30am. Meet at Bukit Batok Nature Park main car park along Bukit Batok East Ave 2.
Website: http://www.nss.org.sg/
Contact: email contact@nss.org.sg or call 6741 2036.

21 Jun (Sun): Mangrove walk at Sungei Buloh

20 Jun (Sat): Native Plant Hunt at Hindhede Nature Park

Are you curious about the names of some of the plants found in Hindhede Nature Park? Here's a chance to help you learn at least 8 native plant species in a fun way! Form a team of 3 to 5 members and pick up a set of clues. You have 1 hour to complete your hunt.

A free fun activity among the tall shady trees of Hindhede Nature Park, overlooking scenic quarry views.

This activity is conducted by the Building and Environment Green Volunteers from Ngee Ann Polytechnic's School of Engineering and the volunteers from NParks Central Nature Reserve.

Registration is limited to a maximum of 10 people per registrant.

More about the activity on the NParks website.

Time: 10-11am. Start at the Bukit Timah Nature Reserve Visitor Centre.
Website: http://www.nparks.gov.sg
Contact: Woon_Ling_Ling@nparks.gov.sg or 6554 5127.

20 Jun (Sat): Young Mathematician of the Gardens

How many petals are there on a flower? Count the number of leaflets on a leaf. Get introduced to addition, subtraction, and many more mathematic skills that you can apply to learning about plants. Be a young Mathematician of the Garden in this guided tour and have fun learning about Maths and Plants.

For enquiry and registration, please contact the Education at 64719961 or nparks_sbg_edu@nparks.gov.sg . Online registration is available on www.sbg.org.sg (under "Education")

Suitable for children in Pri 3- Pri 6 levels.

Time: 10-11am
Venue: Jacob Ballas Children's Garden, Bukit Timah Core of the Singapore Botanic Gardens
Fee: $6 per child and $6 per accompanying adult
Website: http://www.sbg.org.sg
Contact: 64719961 or nparks_sbg_edu@nparks.gov.sg

20 Jun (Sat): Young Naturalist Passport Camp at Sungei Buloh

This one day camp encompasses a series of fun-filled and educational indoor and outdoor learning of the wetlands and nature conservation issues through worksheets, nature walks and hands-on activities. Children will earn a stamp for every completed activity, and a full collection of stamps will earn them a series of cloth badges.

Limited to 40 children between the age of 6-10 years old. Registration is required.

More information on the programme and registration form on the Reserve website.

Time: 9am- 5pm
Cost: Each participant needs to purchase a young naturalist passport from our
Visitor Services Counter at 50 cents. Registration of $5 is applicable, and cheques will be returned upon attendance and completion of the camp. The fee will be donated to the Sungei Buloh Wetland Reserve education fund if the child fails to turn up for the camp upon registration and confirmation. Admission charges (50 cents per child) apply.
Website: http://www.sbwr.org.sg/
Contact: 67941401

20 Jun (Sat): Mangrove walk at Sungei Buloh

Free guided nature walk along the Mangrove boardwalk under shady mangrove trees. Spot mudskippers, crabs and other marine life, learn about our mangroves, enjoy views of the Johor straits.

Suitable for young children.

Registration is not required for small walk-in groups. But each walk is limited to 15 persons per guide and is on a first-come -first-served basis. The walks are weather permitting and may merge with other activities at the Reserve. Those coming with large groups are advised to pre-register.

More about the Sungei Buloh Wetland Reserve on the wildsingapore website and Sungei Buloh Wetland Reserve website. This walk is conducted by the volunteer guides of NParks' Sungei Buloh Wetland Reserve and is held every Saturday.

Time: 9.30am and 3.30pm for walk in guests, register at the Visitor Centre.
Tour duration: One to one-and-a-half hours. Suitable for young children.
Entry charges: While the walk is free, admission fees to the Reserve apply: $1 per adult, 50cents per child/student/senior citizen.
Website: http://www.sbwr.org.sg/
Contact: info@sbwr.org.sg or call 6794 1401

20 Jun (Sun): Mangrove walk at Pasir Ris Park

Eppy Walk What exactly is a mudskipper? And who is Fiddler crab or Sesamine crab? Does a dog-faced water snake look more like a dog or a snake? Join the team and discover answers to the questions above and more. And if we’re lucky, we may be able to see some of the seashore animals at the river mouth (depending on the tide conditions).

Suitable for kids.

Registration closes one day before the walk date.

This walk is held every third Saturday. More details on the Pasir Ris Park website.

Time: 9-10am
Venue: Pasir Ris Park, Pasir Ris Green (Carpark C)
Cost: $4/person
Website: http://www.nparks.gov.sg/
Contact: chong_wei_teng@nparks.gov.sg

20 Jun (Sat): Guided walk at the Sensory Trail, Pulau Ubin

Experience Ubin's wonderful nature through your senses along our Sensory Trail, the trail will brought you to the patch of herbs and spices and a "Secret Garden" to feel the original garden used to be on the island. Much more along the trail for you to explore.

This walk is held every third Saturday of the month.

For more details about this walk, see the NParks website
More about the Sensory Trail on the wildsingapore website and Ubin Volunteers blog

Time: Walks starts 9.30am and lasts for about 1.5 hours. Meet at the Pulau Ubin Main Information Kiosk next to the Ubin Jetty.
Cost: $60 per group of 15 persons, maximum 6 groups
Website: http://www.nparks.gov.sg/
Contact: Jacky Soh jacky_soh@nparks.gov.sg or 65434734

20 Jun (Sat): Guided walk at the National Orchid Garden

A leisurely stroll through a garden of orchids and other special plants.

This walk is conducted by the volunteers of the Singapore Botanic Gardens and is held every third Saturday of the month.

A tour in Mandarin is also conducted at 4pm.

Time: 9am, 10am, 11am and 4pm, register at Visitor Centre 15 minutes before the tour starts. Registration is on a first-come-first-served basis.
Tour duration: One hour.
Cost: While the tour is free, admission charges to the Orchid Garden applies: $5/adult, $1/student, $1/senior citizens (above 60 years) , Child below 12 years - Free
Website: http://www.sbg.org.sg/
Contact: Visitor Services 6471 7361

20 Jun (Sat): Rainforest walk at the Bukit Timah Nature Reserve

A Walk in an Ancient Forest: This free guided nature walk brings you along natural winding hillside trails under tall rainforest trees. Learn about our only substantial patch of primary rainforest, spot forest creatures and strange forest plants.

Along a slightly undulating nature path, the walk is suitable for children aged 9 and above. The trail is not accessible to prams and wheelchairs.

More about the Bukit Timah Nature Reserve on the wildsingapore website and NParks website. This walk is conducted by the volunteer guides of NParks' Central Nature Reserve and is held every third Saturday of the month.

Please register at least three days before the walk at 65545127 or email woon_ling_ling@nparks.gov.sg

Time: 9.30am. Meet at the Bukit Timah Nature Reserve Visitor Centre, at the ranger counter at 9.25am.
Tour duration: About one hour.
Website: http://www.nparks.gov.sg/
Contact: Woon_Ling_Ling@nparks.gov.sg or Tel:6554 5127

8-14 Jun: Highlights of the week ahead

For kids and the family

Sungei Buloh walk with Cicada Tree Eco Place
MAD lessons on wild things with Cicada Tree Eco Place
Family walk at Sentosa shore with the Naked Hermit Crabs Friday and Saturday
Pedal Ubin with the Toddycats!
PrawnWatch at Sungei Buloh a hands on demonstration of traditional prawn farming
"Love Me! Don't Let Me Go!" a talk for kids about the effects of animal release
Young Mathematician of the Gardens

Special events

Family walk at Sentosa shore with the Naked Hermit Crabs Friday and Saturday
Pedal Ubin with the Toddycats!

Walks in our wild places

Nature walk at Admiralty Park Nature Area
Forest walk at the Botanic Gardens Rainforest Trail
Getting to know MacRitchie walk
Nature walk at MacRitchie Prunus Trail
Mangrove walk at Sungei Buloh on Saturday and Sunday

Film

"Trail of the Panda" exclusive charity movie preview in aid of WWF's work on pandas.

for Nature Society (Singapore) memebers only

Pandan Riverside Ramble

Registration now open

until 12 Jul: Sungei Buloh's first photo competition.
28 Jun (Sun): Chek Jawa walk with Cicada Tree Eco Place
27 Jun (Sat): Scents & Sensibility - Children's workshop
26 Jun (Fri): Marine guided walk at Labrador Nature Reserve
24 Jun (Wed): MAD lessons on birds with Cicada Tree Eco Place
20 Jun (Sat): Young Naturalist Passport Camp at Sungei Buloh

Visit the wildsingapore happenings blog for a full listing of upcoming events for the next three weeks and to search for events by your area of interest.

Photo of the week is this fabulous photo of the elusive pangolin that is still found in our forests and shared by Kwok Wai. Unfortunately this gentle creature is threatened by habitat loss and poaching.

Pangolin hiding behind a tree, originally uploaded by kwokwai76.

14 Jun (Sun): Sungei Buloh walk with Cicada Tree Eco Place

This wetland reserve is now a resting and feeding spot for migratory birds. But it also hosts a fantastic diversity of native fauna and flora. In the past, the area had several kampongs (villages) with the locals tending to vegetable and fruit tree plots. Many of these fruit trees and traditional herbs still survive and may be encountered along the trails. The people also constructed fish and prawn ponds in the mangroves. These are now used by the birds.

Trails: Level dirt paths and boardwalks suitable for children, the elderly, disabled or participants using wheelchairs.

Minimum 20 pax for walk to go ahead.

Advance registration & payment is required. Regeister with Celine Low contact@cicadatree.org.sg

Time: 9am-noon
Cost: $13 per person (adult or child), excluding park entrance fees. Park entrance fee is $1.00 for adults, 50 cents for children.
Website: http://www.cicadatree.org.sg/
Contact: Celine Low contact@cicadatree.org.sg

14 Jun (Sun): Mangrove walk at Sungei Buloh

14 Jun (Sun): Pandan Riverside Ramble with the Nature Ramblers

for Nature Society (Singapore) members only

Rehan Yusoff will take us in search of a disused railway track that runs along the left bank of the Ulu Pandan River and explore its lower course. Bring your camera and binoculars. This 6km/3hr ramble will end at Jalan Buroh near Pandan Reservoir. Please wear proper attire and shoes, and bring along a hat/cap and sunglasses.

Time: 7.30am, meet at the entrance of the Ulu Pandan Park Connector, near Block 343 Clementi Road.
Website: http://www.nss.org.sg/
Contact: email contact@nss.org.sg or call 6741 2036.

13 Jun (Sat): Nature walk at Admiralty Park Nature Area

Experience the nature area filled with rich biodiversity of flora and fauna. Appreciate the beauty of the river at different water levels. Venture through both the secondary Rain-forest and the mangrove forest, and seize the opportunity to observe the various plants and animals.

This walk is held every second Saturday of the month.

Registration ends 3 days before the event. To register, please email Dorothy at dorothy_lim@nparks.gov.sg

Time: 8.30-10.30am
Venue: Admiralty Park, amphitheatre
Website: http://www.nparks.gov.sg/
Contact: Dorothy at dorothy_lim@nparks.gov.sg

13 Jun (Sat): Mangrove walk at Sungei Buloh

Free guided nature walk along the Mangrove boardwalk under shady mangrove trees. Spot mudskippers, crabs and other marine life, learn about our mangroves, enjoy views of the Johor straits.

Suitable for young children.

Registration is not required for small walk-in groups. But each walk is limited to 15 persons per guide and is on a first-come -first-served basis. The walks are weather permitting and may merge with other activities at the Reserve. Those coming with large groups are advised to pre-register.

More about the Sungei Buloh Wetland Reserve on the wildsingapore website and Sungei Buloh Wetland Reserve website. This walk is conducted by the volunteer guides of NParks' Sungei Buloh Wetland Reserve and is held every Saturday.

Time: 9.30am and 3.30pm for walk in guests, register at the Visitor Centre.
Tour duration: One to one-and-a-half hours. Suitable for young children.
Entry charges: While the walk is free, admission fees to the Reserve apply: $1 per adult, 50cents per child/student/senior citizen.
Website: http://www.sbwr.org.sg/
Contact: info@sbwr.org.sg or call 6794 1401

13 Jun (Sat): Forest walk at the Botanic Gardens Rainforest Trail

A free guided nature walk through a rainforest right in the heart of the city! Along paved trails, under the shade of giant trees, learn about our rainforests, spot forest creatures and strange plants.

Suitable for young children.

More about the Botanic Gardens Rainforest Trail on the wildsingapore website. This walk is conducted by the volunteer guides of NPark's Singapore Botanic Gardens and is held every second Saturday of the month.

A special Mandarin version of this tour is at 4pm.

Time: 9am, 10am, 11am, 4pm; Register 15 minutes before the tour at the Visitor Centre.
Tour duration: One hour.
Website: http://www.sbg.org.sg/
Contact: Visitor Services, 64717361 or NPARKS_SBG_Visitor_Services@NPARKS.GOV.SG

13 Jun (Sat): "Getting to know MacRitchie" walk

Want to about the history and importance of MacRitchie? "Getting to Know MacRitchie" is the walk for you. Starting at the roundabout within the park, the first portion of the walk will cover the history of MacRitchie and its relationship with water. The second portion of the walk will cover how the forests around the reservoir play a very important role in maintaining the water quality�in MacRitchie�and how the various flora and fauna, within the forests, are vital to life. The walk will weave through the forest trail and end at the bandstand.

This free walk is also available in Mandarin, upon request.

Kindly dress in comfortable clothing and shoes for this walk. Do bring along water and an umbrella. In the event of bad weather, the walk will be cancelled.

Please register at least three days before the walk at 65545127 or email woon_ling_ling@nparks.gov.sg

Time: 9am
Website: http://www.nparks.gov.sg/
Contact: Call 65545127 for enquiry and/or free registration.

13 Jun (Sat): Nature walk at MacRitchie's Prunus Trail

Botanical wonders of MacRitchie. Free guided nature walk along boardwalks hugging the MacRitchie Reservoir. Learn about this mature secondary, spot forest and aquatic wildlife, enjoy panaromic views of waters surrounded by luxuriant forest.

Suitable for young children.

More about the MacRitchie Prunus Trail on the wildsingapore website and NParks website. This walk is conducted by the volunteer guides of NParks Central Nature Reserve and is held every second Saturday of the month.

Time: 9.30am. Meet at entrance of the trail, about 50m after the canoe kiosk on the eastern side of MacRitchie Reservoir Park.
Tour duration: About one hour.
Website: http://www.nparks.gov.sg/
Contact: Woon_Ling_Ling@nparks.gov.sg or call 6554 5127.

13 Jun (Sat): Prawnwatch at Sungei Buloh

13 Jun (Sun): "Love me, don't let me go!" a talk for kids

Animals are so cute and cuddly, especially when they are young. Many of us will be so taken in by their large adorable eyes and cuddly mannerism that we would love to bring them home ... and WE DID!

But, what happens when these babies outgrew their cuteness? What happens when they outgrew the apartment? What happens when they outgrew the tank?

They get "freed" into the nature reserves and they live happily ever after ... or DO THEY?

If you want to know more about what happens to these loveable animals and how they interact with the wild, come for some interesting insights as Ms Karen Teo gives this talk.

Free admission, registration not required.

Time: 3pm to 4pm
Venue: Woodlands Regional Library, Everest Room
Website and contact: http://www.nparks.gov.sg/

13 Jun (Sat): Family walk at Sentosa shore with the Naked Hermit Crabs

Join the Naked Hermit Crabs in their mission to showcase the diverse marine life and natural beauty on our shores. They will bring you on a mini adventure to a beautiful natural shore tucked away in a corner of Sentosa. There will be lots to see.

A note from the Crabs: "We will only allow children who are 6 years-old (K2) or older to join us at the Sentosa walks. The younger ones will have to wait for their turn when they grow older. This is our rule, so please respect it. The walk is not suitable for young children, toddlers and babies."

Registration is required. Walk-in are NOT accepted.

More details on the adventures with the naked hermit crabs blog

Time and meeting place: those who register will be informed.
Website: http://nakedhermitcrabs.blogspot.com/
Contact: nakedhermitcrabs@gmail.com

13 Jun (Sat): Pedal Ubin with the Toddycats!

Nature and heritage on a bicycle!

Pedal Ubin is here again! Join the Toddycats for an exciting morning of stories-sharing, and appreciation of nature and heritage on Pulau Ubin. Of course, get a good workout on your bicycle along with all the fun.

To sign up, please see the Participant's Page
Please note that you have to be at Changi Point Ferry Terminal by 8am, latest!

Registration closes 10 Jun.

Time: 8.30am to 12pm, meet at the Pulau Ubin Volunteer Hub.
Website: http://pedalubin.rafflesmuseum.net/

12 Jun (Fri): Family walk at Sentosa shore with the Naked Hermit Crabs

11 Jun (Thu): Young Mathematician of the Gardens

10 Jun (Wed): "Trail of the Panda" exclusive charity movie preview

A heart-warming journey of an orphaned boy and a lost panda cub into the heart of Sichuan, China. Set against the spectacular scenery of Sichuan Province, experience their epic adventure of friendship and courage.
Witness the boy's determination in reuniting his friend with his mother. The film is in Chinese with English subtitles. Here's a review of the film.

All the proceeds from this preview will go towards WWF and its panda habitat reconstruction efforts in Sichuan. So come join us for a fun and meaningful night out with your family and friends

More about WWF Singapore and their work on pandas

For pre-booking, please email us at rsvp@wwf.sg with your name, contact number and number of tickets. Booking confirmation will be emailed to you upon reception of your cheque payment.

This exclusive charity preview has been made possible thanks to the kind support of Walt Disney Studios Motion Pictures Singapore.

Time: 7.15pm
Venue: Golden Village @ Marina Square
Price: $25 per ticket, includes a WWF collectible.
Mode of Payment: By Cheque: Issue to "WWF - World Wide Fund for Nature (Singapore) Ltd". Please clearly state your name, contact details and number of tickets at the back of the cheque. Ticket(s) collection at the door on 10 June from 6pm. By Cash: Please visit our office, WWF Singapore at 237 Cantonment Road. Opening hours - Monday to Friday from 9am to 5pm.
Website: http://www.panda.org/who_we_are/wwf_offices/singapore/
Contact: Jane or Apple, at Tel : +65 6323 0100.

8 Jun (Mon): MAD lessons on wild things with Cicada Tree Eco Place

In this hands-on lesson, kids go on a treasure hunt of pond life and birds, learn about dragonflies, butterflies and frogs, their ecology -- life cycle, where they live, what they eat, what may eat them. Kids also get to colour and make their own dragonfly/butterfly mobile. This MAD lesson will also include information about how you can be part of the solution to protect our environment and wild habitats.

For children between the ages of 5 and 10. Pre-registration is required, email Celine Low at contact@cicadatree.org.sg

Choose any one of the dates below:
Monday, 8 June 2009, 9.30 to 11.30am
Sunday, 21 June 2009, 9.30 to 11.30am

Cost: $15 per child which includes a lovely badge and nature magazine.
Venue: Singapore Botanic Gardens, Cluny Road (meet at Visitor Centre). Carpark entrance is via Nassim Gate at junction of Cluny Road and Nassim Road.
Website and contact: http://www.cicadatree.org.sg

1-7 Jun: Highlights of the week ahead

Special announcement: Chek Jawa intertidal walk dates for Jul-Sep 09 are now online. Bookings now can only be done online. More on how to do this on the wild shores of singapore blog.

It's the school holidays!
And this weekend is World Environment Day!
so there's lots of activities on

Specially for kids and the family

Amazing Mangrove Adventure at Sungei Buloh: a fun activity for the whole family.
Youth Eco-Fiesta 2009 at Tampines with the NParks Biodiversity Trail and NEA Eco bus.
Kampong Ubin walk with Cicada Tree Eco Place
MAD lessons on wild things with Cicada Tree Eco Place
Our Kitchen Garden tour at Pasir Ris Park
NSS Kids’ Fun with Plants that Grow on Other Plants.
Stories about Nature - Drama workshop for kids
"Nature & Me" - Drama workshop for kids
Fun Adventure with Fruits and Veggies at the Jacob Ballas Children’s Garden
The Colourful World of Butterflies at the Library.

Special events

Gorgeous Green Gala a fund raiser by the Jane Goodall Institute Singapore.
"Vision for Hope" Youth Symposium by the Jane Goodall Institute Singapore.
Green Generation Concert by the Jane Goodall Institute Singapore.
SEC Charity Movie Premiere of "Home"
RE-Live! 2009 an environmental sustainability event by ECO Singapore

More walks in our wild places

Mangrove walk at Sungei Buloh on Saturday and Sunday.
Nature walk at the Lower Peirce Boardwalk.
Edible and medicinal plants tour at the Botanic Gardens.

For environmentalists

Workshop for Nature Guides - Spiders by the Leafmonkey Workshop
Cleantech Happy Hour III A relaxed get-together of the Green and Clean Community of Singapore

For Nature Society members only

The Joys of Dipterocarps Part III

Registration now open

until 12 Jul: Sungei Buloh's first photo competition.
28 Jun (Sun): Chek Jawa walk with Cicada Tree Eco Place
14 Jun (Sun): Sungei Buloh walk with Cicada Tree Eco Place
13 Jun (Sat): Pedal Ubin with the Toddycats!
12 Jun (Fri) and 13 Jun (Sat): Family walk at Sentosa shore with the Naked Hermit Crabs
10 Jun (Wed): Trail of the Panda a charity film preview in aid of WWF

Visit the wildsingapore happenings blog for a full listing of upcoming events for the next three weeks and to search for events by your area of interest.

Photo of the week is sadly of the 300 horseshore crabs found entangled in a driftnet at Mandai Besar. Read about the rescue and heart-breaking issue of driftnets on our shores on the habitatnews blog.

20090528-mandai_besar-horseshoe_crab_rescue10, originally uploaded by habitatnews.

Chek Jawa intertidal walk dates for Jul-Sep 09 now online

A special shore with lots of history and a wide range of things to see and do, the morning low tide trips to Chek Jawa are now available for booking.

Bookings of these tours will only be available via internet booking from 1 Jun 09.

Dates of the public walks

Available for booking from 1st Jun 09

26th Jul 09 Sun 8.00 AM
27th Jul 09 Mon 8.00 AM

Available for booking from 1st Sep 09

18th Oct 09 Sun 4.00 PM
3rd Nov 09 Tue 4.00 PM
17th Nov 09 Tue 4.00 PM
1st Dec 09 Tue 3.00 PM
2nd Dec 09 Wed 4.00 PM
3rd Dec 09 Thu 4.00 PM
16th Dec 09 Wed 4.00 PM
30th Dec 09 Wed 3.00 PM

How to book a tour?
According to the NParks website: "With effect from 1st June 2009, booking for guided tours will only be available via internet booking."

How does internet booking work?
More details on the wild shores of singapore blog.

7 Jun (Sun): Kampong Ubin walk with Cicada Tree Eco Place

A stroll through parts of rural Pulau Ubin. We will look at what the locals grow in their backyards, from the herbs used as traditional medicines, to vegetables, wildflowers and fruit trees. Many of these are ‘old-fashion’ plants now no longer common, such as Sawtooth Coriander, Ceylon Spinach and Rambai. Durian trees abound on Ubin, with two fruiting seasons a year. Trails are mostly level earth paths and tar road. Suitable for all.

Minimum 20 pax. Minimum age of 6 years.
Advance registration & payment is required.

Find out more about Living Earth Walks at http://cicadatree.blogspot.com/

More about Pulau Ubin on wildsingapore.

Time: 9am, the walk will last 2 hours.
Walk fee: $13 per person, 6 years and above, excluding bumboat ride which costs $2.50 per person one way.
Website: http://www.cicadatree.org.sg/
Contact: Celine Low at contact@cicadatree.org.sg

7 Jun (Sun): Mangrove walk at Sungei Buloh

6 Jun (Sat): Gorgeous Green Gala

The Inaugural Gorgeous Green Gala supports the vital and exciting work of JGIS. You can support Singapore’s branch of the Jane Goodall Institute and its many activities, including Roots & Shoots, by attending the JGIS inaugural fundraising dinner and auction.

Dr. Jane Goodall will be the Keynote Speaker and Guest-of-Honour for the Gala. Take advantage of this special opportunity to meet the internationally acclaimed scientist, New York Times bestselling author, and United Nation’s Messenger of Peace.

Time: 7-11pm, one night only
Venue: Colonial Ballroom, American Club, 10 Claymore Hill, Singapore 229573 map
Cost: $250 per person (in aid of the Jane Goodall Institute Singapore)
Dress: Gorgeously Green or Formal Attire
Menu: Gourmet Vegetarian
Website: http://www.janegoodall.org.sg
Contact: gala@janegoodall.org.sg or call 6466-3328

6 Jun (Sat): MAD lessons on wild things with Cicada Tree Eco Place

In this hands-on lesson, kids go on a treasure hunt of pond life and birds, learn about dragonflies, butterflies and frogs, their ecology -- life cycle, where they live, what they eat, what may eat them. Kids also get to colour and make their own dragonfly/butterfly mobile. This MAD lesson will also include information about how you can be part of the solution to protect our environment and wild habitats.

For children between the ages of 5 and 10. Pre-registration is required, email Celine Low at contact@cicadatree.org.sg

Choose any one of the dates below:
Saturday, 6 June 2009, 9.30 to 11.30am
Monday, 8 June 2009, 9.30 to 11.30am
Sunday, 21 June 2009, 9.30 to 11.30am

Cost: $15 per child which includes a lovely badge and nature magazine.
Venue: Singapore Botanic Gardens, Cluny Road (meet at Visitor Centre). Carpark entrance is via Nassim Gate at junction of Cluny Road and Nassim Road.
Website and contact: http://www.cicadatree.org.sg

6 Jun (Sat): Our Kitchen Garden tour at Pasir Ris Park

Excite your senses with our Kitchen Garden Tour. Find out how vegetables are grown before it gets onto your plate! You will also learn about some natural remedies that our grandmothers might have planted in their own backyard.

Suitable for children from K1-P6 levels.

To register, please contact Wei Teng at 64653305 or email chong_wei_teng@nparks.gov.sg

This walk is conducted every first Saturday of the month

Time: 9am - 10am
Venue: Pasir Ris Park, Pasir Ris Green (Carpark C)
Cost: $4 per person
Website: http://www.nparks.gov.sg/
Contact: chong_wei_teng@nparks.gov.sg

6 Jun (Sat): Mangrove walk at Sungei Buloh

Free guided nature walk along the Mangrove boardwalk under shady mangrove trees. Spot mudskippers, crabs and other marine life, learn about our mangroves, enjoy views of the Johor straits.

Suitable for young children.

Registration is not required for small walk-in groups. But each walk is limited to 15 persons per guide and is on a first-come -first-served basis. The walks are weather permitting and may merge with other activities at the Reserve. Those coming with large groups are advised to pre-register.

More about the Sungei Buloh Wetland Reserve on the wildsingapore website and Sungei Buloh Wetland Reserve website. This walk is conducted by the volunteer guides of NParks' Sungei Buloh Wetland Reserve and is held every Saturday.

Time: 9.30am and 3.30pm for walk in guests, register at the Visitor Centre.
Tour duration: One to one-and-a-half hours. Suitable for young children.
Entry charges: While the walk is free, admission fees to the Reserve apply: $1 per adult, 50cents per child/student/senior citizen.
Website: http://www.sbwr.org.sg/
Contact: info@sbwr.org.sg or call 6794 1401

6 Jun (Sat): Edible and medicinal plants tour at the Botanic Gardens

Join this free tour by our volunteer guides and spice up your knowledge of Edible and Medicinal Plants.

This tour is conducted every first Saturday. Registration is on a first-come-first-served basis at the Visitor Centre, 15 minutes before the tour starts.

More information on the Singapore Botanic Gardens website.

Time: 9am and 10am, register 15 minutes before the tour at Singapore Botanic Gardens Visitor Centre
Website: http://www.sbg.org.sg/
Contact: Visitor Services (6471 7361)

6 Jun (Sat): Nature walk at Lower Peirce Boardwalk

Up Close and Personal at Lower Peirce. Free guided nature walk along boardwalks through cool, shady forests and by the Lower Peirce Reservoir. Learn about our forests, spot forest and aquatic wildlife, enjoy panaromic views of waters surrounded by luxuriant forest.

Suitable for young children.

More about the Lower Peirce Trail on the wildsingapore website and NParks website. This walk is conducted by the volunteer guides of NParks Central Nature Reserve and is held every first Saturday of the month.

Please register at least three days before the walk at 65545127 or email woon_ling_ling@nparks.gov.sg

Time: 9.30am. Meet at Casuarina Entrance of the trail along Old Upper Thomson Road, which is a 2-minute walk from Casuarina Road.
Tour duration: One-and-a-half hours. Suitable for young children
Website: http://www.nparks.gov.sg/
Contact: woon_ling_ling@nparks.gov.sg or call 6554 5127.

6 Jun (Sat): "Vision for Hope" Youth Symposium

The Jane Goodall Institute (Singapore) presents the "Vision for Hope" Youth Symposium, a daylong celebration of how personal action can be a substantial and positive force for making the world around us better.

The event promises to be an exciting, meaningful and fun exchange of ideas and visions highlighting the ability of youth to bring about a healthier environment, a more equitable society, and a place where people and nature can coexist.

Time: 8am–5pm
Venue: Singapore American School
Cost: $20 per person
Website: www.janegoodall.org.sg / http://jgisyouthsymposium.ning.com
Contact: chiak@rgs.edu.sg / info@janegoodall.org.sg

6 Jun (Sat): Amazing Mangrove Adventure at Sungei Buloh

To celebrate World Environment Day, Sungei Buloh Wetland Reserve presents the Amazing Mangrove Adventure! Groups of 4 move around the reserve, learning about the mangrove flora and fauna. Prizes to be won! First prize $350, second prize $200 and third prize $100.

More details (PDF) about the event on the Sungei Buloh website

Pre-register for the event by emailing info@sbwr.org.sg

Time: 9.30am or 11.30am

Hillgrove Secondary School Environment Club Members will also be conducting a fundraiser. Handmade crafts and artwork of Hillgrove Sec. Sch. students can be purchased and all proceeds will go to Sungei Buloh Wetland Reserve's Conservation Fund.

Time : 9.00am - 12.30pm
Venue: Visitor Center

Website and contact: http://www.sbwr.org.sg/

6 Jun (Sat): Youth Eco-Fiesta 2009 at Tampines

This event aims to showcase the talents of Singaporean youth and to commemorate World Environment Day. This year's theme for Environment Day is "Your planet needs you! Unite to combat Climate Change".

Among the highlights is the Biodiversity Trail by NParks featuring our very own wild places, including the Central Nature Reserve, Sungei Buloh Wetland Reserve and even our marine life through the work of TeamSeagrass and the Coral Nursery. There'll be activities for the family including a Biodiversity Trail Quiz. Join and win prizes. The National Environment Agency's Eco Bus will also be there.

More about the Youth Eco-Fiesta 2009

Time: 7.30-9.30pm
Venue: Tampines East Festival Park (next to Blk 257), Tampines Street 21, Singapore 520257.
Website and contact: http://www.nyaagaha.org/index.php/2009/05/31/youth-eco-fiesta-2009/

6 Jun (Sat): The Joys of Dipterocarps Part III

for Nature Society (Singapore) members only

Join Shawn Lum and the Plant Group to spot wild dipterocarps! Get to know these plants better and learn how to recognise different forest types in the process. Beginners and experienced forest hands alike should revel in a pleasant afternoon of botanising.

Time: 3.30pm. Meet at Refreshment kiosk of MacRitchie Reservoir.
Website: http://www.nss.org.sg/
Contact: email contact@nss.org.sg or call 6741 2036.

6 Jun (Sat): NSS Kids’ Fun with Plants that Grow on Other Plants

Do you know that Singapore has several of our own species of wild mistletoes (yes, the same one that people kiss under during Christmas) that typically grow on the branches of tall trees? Learn about mistletoes and other plants that grow on trunks and branches (ie. epiphytes and parasites), and see them flourishing wild at eye-level in the garden of a classic black-and-white bungalow near Sembawang Park. Margie Hall, NSS Honorary Secretary and professional nature guide, whose house we would be visiting, will personally give us a fun-filled introduction to these fascinating plants, with insights to their peculiar survival strategies.

Please register your kids (4 to 12 years old) at gloria_seow@yahoo.com, stating their names and ages, if you are a NSS member or not and your mobile number.

A fee of $5 per child (member) or $10 per child (non-member) will be collected on the spot. Parents can sit in at no charge.

Details will be emailed to those who sign up.

Time: 8-10am at a Private garden at Sembawang Park.
Website: http://www.nss.org.sg/
Contact: email contact@nss.org.sg or call 6741 2036.

6 Jun (Sat); Stories about Nature - Drama workshop for kids

Through story, dramatisation and props provided to further ignite and enhance the imagination, children will learn about nature, its effects on our earth and how to show respect towards it.

For enquiry and registration, please contact the Education at 64719961 or nparks_sbg_edu@nparks.gov.sg . Online registration is available on www.sbg.org.sg (under "Education")

Suitable for children in P1 - P3 levels.

Time: 3-4pm
Venue: Jacob Ballas Children's Garden, Bukit Timah Core of the Singapore Botanic Gardens
Fee: $10 per child
Website: http://www.sbg.org.sg
Contact: 64719961 or nparks_sbg_edu@nparks.gov.sg

6 Jun (Sat): "Nature & Me" - Drama workshop for kids

Through story, dramatisation and props provided to further ignite and enhance the imagination, children will learn about nature, its effects on our earth and how to show respect towards it.

For enquiry and registration, please contact the Education at 64719961 or nparks_sbg_edu@nparks.gov.sg . Online registration is available on www.sbg.org.sg (under "Education")

Suitable for children in K1 - K2 levels

Time: 2-3pm
Venue: Jacob Ballas Children's Garden, Bukit Timah Core of the Singapore Botanic Gardens
Fee: $10.00 per child
Website: http://www.sbg.org.sg
Contact: 64719961 or nparks_sbg_edu@nparks.gov.sg

5-7 Jun (Fri-Sun): RE-Live! 2009

RE-Live! 2009 will be launched on World Environment Day! It focuses on six themes in line with ECO Singapore’s approach in environmental sustainability, namely water, waste, biodiversity, shelter, food and energy. These six areas are encountered in almost every aspect of a person's daily life, particularly in our consumption habits. Through a series of exhibitions and events, a total of 200 youth volunteers will encourage members of the public to live a sustainable living lifestyle through making more informed choices.

Notable events during the three day event include activities like “Follow Me”, “Live Green Mass Action”, Green Walk, and an Aerial Photography mass exercise.

More details on the ECO Singapore website

Dates: 5-7 June 2009; launch event on 5 June 2009
Venue: Bugis Junction
Website: http://www.eco-singapore.org/
Contact: enquiry@eco-singapore.org

5 Jun (Fri): SEC Charity Movie Premiere of "Home"

More than a movie, HOME will be a major event all over the globe: for the first time ever, a film will be released on the same day in over 50 countries.

In 200,000 years on Earth, humanity has upset the balance of the planet, established by nearly four billion years of evolution. The price to pay is high, but it's too late to be a pessimist: humanity has barely ten years to reverse the trend, become aware of the full extent of its spoliation of the Earth's riches and change its patterns of consumption.

By bringing us unique footage from over fifty countries, all seen from the air, by sharing with us his wonder and his concern, with this film Yann Arthus-Bertrand lays a foundation stone for the edifice that, together, we must rebuild.

Directed by: Yann Arthus Bertrand
Narration: Glenn Close

View Movie Trailer and download Production Notes (Doc)

Global release date : 5 June (Fri)

Pre-screening reception: 6.45pm
Time: 7.15pm (90mins)
Venue: Shaw Lido 1
Ticket Price: $50
Contact: info@sec.org.sg

5 Jun (Fri): Workshop for Nature Guides - Spiders

Get Web with Singapore Spiders Workshop
by the Leafmonkey Workshop

One of Marcus Ng's many fabulous spider photos on his flickr.

Get Web with Singapore Spiders Workshop
by the Leafmonkey Workshop

What is the workshop about?
This workshop is an introduction to the spiders of Singapore. Learn how the ecology, food, sex and webs of spiders, as well as how to photograph them.

About the speaker
Marcus Ng is a writer by profession, a naturalist by interest and an avid nature photographer who wows fans with his vivid photographs of insects, spiders, birds and other wildlife. He authors the popular Annotated Budak blog. He is also an active nature volunteer with many groups, both terrestrial and marine, spanning his interests from forest ecology, peat swamps to inter-tidal reefs and mangroves.

More details of the event on the Leafmonkey Workshop

Time: 7 - 9.30pm
Venue: Civil Service College, 31 North Buona Vista Road [Map]
Website: http://leafmonkeyworkshop.blogspot.com/
Contact: leafmonkey@gmail.com

5 Jun (Fri): Green Generation Concert by the Jane Goodall Institute (Singapore)

The Jane Goodall Institute of Singapore and students of the National Institute of Education (GESL Group 10), in conjunction with the Singapore Botanic Gardens’ 150th Anniversary will be staging a concert that is open to the public on 5 June 2009 in order to raise awareness of global conservation.

The concert, that expects a turnout of 2000 people, aims to spread the message of conservation to the public and the youth in particular, and will feature world-renown primatologist and founder of the Jane Goodall Institute, Dr. Jane Goodall as the guest keynote speaker. The event will also feature short student-produced plays and competitions as well as family-oriented fringe activities.

In honour of the evening, we would like to cordially invite you to the Green Generation Concert! You are free to bring your own picnic food, water bottle, a comfortable mat and an umbrella lest it rains (the show will go on rain or shine!). See you there!

Time: 6-9pm
Venue: Palm Valley, Singapore Botanic Gardens
Website: www.janegoodall.org.sg / www.greengeneration09.com
Contact: greengeneration09@gmail.com / info@janegoodall.org.sg

4 Jun (Thu): Fun Adventure with Fruits and Veggies

3 Jun (Wed): Cleantech Happy Hour III

What is it: A relaxed get-together of the Green and Clean Community of Singapore.

For whom: Everyone working on, with a passion for or just an interest in clean technologies, renewable, carbon management, water, energy efficiency, etc. Feel free to forward this message to anyone who may be interested. Friends, colleagues, anyone with an interest is welcome!

When: Wednesday June 3, there is no agenda so feel free to drop by anytime between 6:30 to 9:00 pm

Venue: Geek Terminal
Drinks are 2 for the price of one at $10++!!

55 Market Street #01-01
Tel: +65 65570098
http://www.geekterminal.com
Nearest MRT: Raffles Place MRT
(if you MUST drive) Nearest Carpark: Golden Shoe Carpark

from the Low Carbon Singapore blog

3 Jun (Wed): The Colourful World of Butterflies

Explore the colourful world of butterflies! Get to know interesting facts about this luttering insect & share with us the different butterflies you have seen. What's more, you will be treated to stories about butterflies & have fun creating a butterfly craft.

For children aged 7 – 9 years old. Limited to 25 participants.

Time: 3-4pm
Venue: Everest Room in Woodlands Regional Library
Cost: Registration is required at our eKiosks with an admission charge of $2 per child.
Website and contact: http://golibrary.nlb.gov.sg/

events categories

reef happenings in 2008

preparing for a wild trip

more wild stuff

after your wild trip

about this blog

subscribe to wild happenings

followers of wild happenings

updates!

events calendar

more happenings

what happened?

visits to the blog

add these events to your google calendar

put wild happenings on your blog

acknowledgements