30 Apr (Fri): Workshop for Nature Guides - Operation No Release

by the Leafmonkey Workshop

This workshop is likely to be useful for anyone interested to do more about the release of animals into our natural habitats. It would be especially useful for anyone interested to volunteer for or would like to find out more about NPark's efforts in tackling this issue.

More about why it is cruel to release animals on the wild shores of singapore blog.

The workshop requires active participation and includes role playing activities and is not to be mistaken for a public talk.


SPEAKER
Karen Teo, NParks
Karen Teo is a Senior Outreach Officer of the Central Nature Reserve Branch (National Parks Board). An ex-teacher by training, Karen is passionate about conserving Singapore's natural heritage. She did her Master thesis on Bukit Timah Nature Reserve at the Australian National University. Currently, she develops, facilitates and organises outreach and educational activities/programmes at Bukit Timah Nature Reserve and Central Catchment Nature Reserve. In addition, she gives talks on nature conservation issues of Singapore to schools, organisations and the universities and conducts training workshops for teachers on fieldwork activities in the nature reserves and nature parks.


More details of the event on the Leafmonkey Workshop

Please register by 28 Apr (Wed)

Time: 7 - 9.30pm
Venue: Civil Service College, 31 North Buona Vista Road Singapore 275983 [Map]
Website: http://leafmonkeyworkshop.blogspot.com/
Contact: leafmonkey@gmail.com

27 Apr (Tue): Film screening "The Burning Season"

Every year, there is a burning season in Indonesia. Areas of rainforest the size of Denmark are cut down and set alight by farmers and corporations to develop palm oil plantations.

The Burning Season. Cinema Trailer from Paul 2 on Vimeo.


Dorjee Sun, a young Australian Entrepreneur, believes there's money to be made from protecting rainforests in Indonesia, saving the orangutan from extinction and making a real impact on climate change. Armed with a laptop and a backpack, he sets out across the globe to find investors in his carbon trading scheme. It is a battle against time. Achmadi, the palm oil farmer is ready to set fire to his land to plant more palm oil, and Lone's orangutan centre has reached crisis point with over 600 orangutans rescued from the fires. The Burning Season is an eco-thriller about a young man not afraid to confront the biggest challenge of our time.

Presented by Qi Movie Club (Premiere).

Time: 10-12:30pm and 7:30-9pm
Venue: Picotin, 100 Turf Club Road, 287992 Singapore, Tel: 6877 1191 (www.picotin.com.sg)
Cost: Free ($20 voluntary charity donation)
Website and contact: Nora at info@qi-global.com, call 6611 6922 or sign up on www.qi-global.com/movies

27 Apr (Tue): MAD lessons on Pangolins with Cicada Tree Eco-Place

Pangolins are scaly anteaters and they are found in Singapore! These rare mammals live in the forest and are active at night when they search for ants and termites to eat. Sadly, pangolins are in danger of disappearing from our Earth because people catch them and kill them.
Photo by Norman LimHow can we save pangolins? If you’d like to learn more about our precious pangolins and how you can make a difference in their lives, join us for a Mad Lesson on Pangolins.

For kid between the ages of 5 and 10.
Please sign up early as it's limited to 20 kids per class.
For enquiries and registration, please contact Celine Low at contact@cicadatree.org.sg

Other date: 8 May (Sat)
Time: 2.30-4.30pm
Venue: Jacob Ballas Children’s Garden.
Cost: $15 per child which includes a lovely badge.
Website:
http://www.cicadatree.org.sg/

19-25 Apr: Highlights of the week ahead

For kids and the family

Earth Day specials

Other nature events

Walks in wild places

Film screening
  • 22 Apr (Thu): Singapore premier screening of "Tapped"

You CAN make a difference!

for Nature Society (Singapore) members only

Singapore nature news highlights

Highlights of blogs about Singapore nature

Registration now open

Photo of the week is this marvellous nest built by the Baya Weaver bird. Shared by Shirls on her awesome blog.

25 Apr (Sun): Kranji Nature Walk with Nature Society (Singapore)

Join this free nature walk at the beautiful Kranji Reservoir Marsh tucked in a remote corner of Singapore. Get away from it all and enjoy the interesting wildlife and the scenic landscape of Kranji Reservoir and the countryside. The walk is conducted by the Nature Society under the PUB's ABC Waters Programe.

The walk is free and open to all, but pre-registration is required. To register, email kranji@nss.org.sg

This walk is held every last weekend of the month.

Time: 8am.
Website: http://www.nss.org.sg
Contact: email contact@nss.org.sg or call 6741 2036.

25 Apr (Sun): NSS Kids's Fun with Butterflies at Changi Airport T3

for Nature Society (Singapore) members only

Do you know that the world's first butterfly garden in an airport is right here at Changi Airport Terminal 3? Located at the Transit Mall, this nature retreat is home to nearly 50 butterfly species native to Singapore and Malaysia, boasting more than 1,000 free-flying beauties.

The garden has educational corners as well as individual enclosures where visitors can observe up close the breeding and feeding of butterflies. If you are lucky, you might even witness butterflies leaving their pupae! Gan and Simon of the Butterfly Interest Group will guide us.

Limited to 16 places with priority given to NSS Kids between 4 to 12 years old. Depending on availability, parents may or may not be able to accompany your kids into the garden.

Particulars needed by Changi Airport:
  • Full Name as in NRIC/FIN,
  • Gender,
  • Race,
  • Nationality,
  • Country of Birth,
  • Date of Birth (DD/MM/YY),
  • Home/Company Address,
  • Handphone Number,
  • NSS membership number.
Email particulars to Gloria at gloria_ seow@yahoo.com. Closing date: 15 April.

A fee of $5 per participant (members only) will be collected on the spot.

Please note that the date for this walk can only be confirmed after SATS police approve of the participant list. We will email you to confirm this, and to provide further details.

Time: 9.30 - 11.30 am. Further details to be provided to those who signed up.
Website: http://www.nss.org.sg/
Contact: email contact@nss.org.sg or call 6741 2036.

25 Apr (Sun): Dive Pulau Hantu with the Hantu Bloggers

A unique and educational dive experience in our local waters. Discover what is truly, uniquely Singapore!

Your support helps us monitor and document Hantu's reef on a regular basis! Let's see what's waiting for us out there this time!

Pre-registration is required.

Organised by the Hantu Bloggers, check out their blog for more details of the upcoming trip and to register online.

From the Hantu Bloggers: "The Hantu Blog Dives are integral to our work on the island. More than just an educational field trip, our dives are also our primary source of funding to develop and maintain public education work in schools and at national events. By joining our dives, you’ll not only be signing up for an insightful and eye-opening weekend, you’ll also be contributing to our efforts to safe guard Pulau Hantu and its marine life."

Join the The Hantu Bloggers Yahoo Group to read the trip itinerary, and to be informed of future dives.

Website: http://www.pulauhantu.org/
Contact: hantublog@gmail.com

25 Apr (Sun): Free guided tour of the Jacob Ballas Children's Garden

The Jacob Ballas Children's Garden is a specialized garden dedicated to children. The garden stimulates a sense of wonder for the plant world and provide happy memories for our child visitors. Through play and exploration, children learn about the importance of plants and conservation. This is the first garden of its kind in Asia.

Come and join our free one-hour guided tours of the Jacob Ballas Children's Garden conducted by trained Student Volunteer Guides from NUS High School.

Suitable for families & children in K1 - P6 levels.

Maximum 15 participants per group. To register, approach the Information Counter located at the Jacob Ballas Children's Garden at least 15 minutes before the tour starts.

The tour will be held every Saturday and Sunday from 6 March to 2 May with additional sessions on 2 April 2010, Good Friday.

Times: 10am, 11am, 2pm, 30pm
Venue: Jacob Ballas Children’s Garden, Bukit Timah Core of the Singapore Botanic Gardens
Website and contact: http://www.nparks.gov.sg/ or call 6471 9961 / 6465 0196 or nparks_sbg_edu@nparks.gov.sg.

25 Apr (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

25 Apr (Sun): Paint Along with Pui San at Sungei Buloh

Free art-and-nature appreciation at Sungei Buloh Wetland Reserve.

Tham Pui San, a volunteer of Sungei Buloh Wetland Reserve, is an avid artist who expresses his passion for nature through his art work.

Pui San welcomes artists of all ages or anyone who wants to learn. His objective is to encourage creativity while enjoying nature at the same time. Bring along your favourite drawing or painting supplies and enjoy learning different drawing techniques at Sungei Buloh.

More in the art in the wetlands blog.

Time: 2-4.30pm, meet at the Sungei Buloh Wetland Reserve ticketing counter (Visitor Centre).
Venue: Cafeteria (Bliss Cafe).
Admission charges: While the art session is free, usual admission charges to Reserve apply. $1 per adult, 50cents per child/student/senior citizen.
Website: http://artinwetlands.wordpress.com/
Contact: Tham Pui Sam at thampuisan@hotmail.com or the Sungei Buloh Wetland Reserve at info@sbwr.org.sg or call 6794 1401

24 Apr (Sat): Free Chek Jawa Boardwalk tour with the Naked Hermit Crabs

photo by Andy DineshThe Naked Hermit Crabs introduce you to Chek Jawa without getting your feet wet. Even though we are not going on to the shore, there is still much to see and enjoy. There are monitor lizards, fiddler crabs, spiders, rare plants, wild boars, mudskippers and lots of fruit trees. If we are lucky, we might even spot the Oriental Pied Hornbill, White-bellied Sea Eagle and the giant Atlas Moth.

Not more than five persons in a group, pre-register at nakedhermitcrabs@gmail.com

More details on the Adventures with the Naked Hermit Crabs blog.

Time: 9.30am 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

24 Apr (Sat): Sara goes Carbon Footprinting

Join Sara, the Botanicosaurus, and her new friend, Rana the Frog in this tour and learn about carbon footprints and the many little but important things that all of us can do to make a difference for our home, Planet Earth! Young participants will also be introduced to some useful and multi-purpose trees!

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 - P6 levels

Time: 10-11am
Venue: Jacob Ballas Children's Garden, Bukit Timah Core of the Singapore Botanic Gardens
Fee: $8.50 per child (includes $2.50 “Sara Goes Carbon Footprinting" workbook) and $6 per accompanying adult
Website: http://www.sbg.org.sg
Contact: 64719961 or nparks_sbg_edu@nparks.gov.sg

24 Apr (Sat): Nature Adventure Walk at Dairy Farm Nature Park for kids

This highly interactive Nature Adventure Walk is designed for children aged 9 – 12, allowing them to explore scientific aspects of the natural environment through hands-on activities. We promise an educational and interactive time of fun-filled activities that your whole family will enjoy.
Some of our activities include:
  • A guided walk of Wallace Trail, where many fruit trees and interesting plants can be sighted
  • Charades, where participants will learn about the diversity of nature – animals and their unique behaviours
  • Dog and Bone, where the conservation message will be brought across to participants
  • Flower Identification, where participants will learn how to identify different kinds of flowers and their characteristics
  • Scavenger hunt, where participants can appreciate the wonders of nature that can be found in Dairy Farm Nature Park
  • Personalised Souvenir-making, where participants can design their own cup, plant seeds in it, and watch their very own plant grow as the days pass
To register, email nature.trailblazers@gmail.com, or call 81801601/91551644.

Time: 3-6pm
Venue: Dairy Farm Nature Park
Website: http://naturetrailblazers.wordpress.com/

24 Apr (Sat): Free guided tour of the Jacob Ballas Children's Garden

The Jacob Ballas Children's Garden is a specialized garden dedicated to children. The garden stimulates a sense of wonder for the plant world and provide happy memories for our child visitors. Through play and exploration, children learn about the importance of plants and conservation. This is the first garden of its kind in Asia.

Come and join our free one-hour guided tours of the Jacob Ballas Children's Garden conducted by trained Student Volunteer Guides from NUS High School.

Suitable for families & children in K1 - P6 levels.

Maximum 15 participants per group. To register, approach the Information Counter located at the Jacob Ballas Children's Garden at least 15 minutes before the tour starts.

The tour will be held every Saturday and Sunday from 6 March to 2 May with additional sessions on 2 April 2010, Good Friday.

Times: 10am, 11am, 2pm, 30pm
Venue: Jacob Ballas Children’s Garden, Bukit Timah Core of the Singapore Botanic Gardens
Website and contact: http://www.nparks.gov.sg/ or call 6471 9961 / 6465 0196 or nparks_sbg_edu@nparks.gov.sg.

24 Apr (Sat): HortPark Butterfly Garden guided tour

HortPark's latest attraction - Butterfly Garden - is an experimental project that supports efforts for a Butterfly Species Recovery Programme. It aims to breed various butterfly species, including locally extince species using suitable nectar and host plants in the enclosure.

Get up close and personal with the flying jewels, and learn their different stages of metamorphosis from egg to caterpillar into butterfly. Observe how pupae emerge into adult butterflies before taking their maiden flight within HortPark's Butterfly Garden.

This walk is held every last Saturday of the month

Time: 10am, please gather at the Butterfly Garden for the tour
Website: http://www.nparks.gov.sg/
Contact: 6471 5601

24 Apr (Sat): Heritage and nature guided walk at Fort Canning Park

"Revisiting History, Embracing Nature"
This FREE programme highlights the changing faces of Fort Canning through the centuries.

Once the seat of Malay royalty in the 14th century, it was home to colonial governors and turned into a fort in the 19th century. In modern times, it was used as a military base during the Second World War. Today, a display of ancient relics dating back to the 14th century as well as the Fort Gate, remnant of the fortress built in the 1860s, are reminders of Singapore’s rich past.

You may also opt for a tour on The Fort Canning Spice Trail only. This trail was part of the tract of Singapore's first botanical and experimental garden and you will be introduced to the importance of spice back then and its uses in our daily life. Your exploration on the fascinating world of spices begins in the Spice Garden of Fort Canning Park.

Whether it is botanical or historical, learning about our history is just a walk in the park.

Walk is moderately easy but will involve walking up slopes and steps so do come dressed comfortably. The tour lasts two and a half hours. This walk is held every last Saturday of the month.

Pre-registration required. Call 63321200 or 63321302 or email surinam_sumsudin@nparks.gov.sg

Time: 4-6.30pm
Venue: Meet courtyard opposite NParks Visitor Centre, Fort Canning Centre
Website: http://www.nparks.gov.sg/
Contact: 63321200 or 63321302 or email surinam_sumsudin@nparks.gov.sg

24 Apr (Sat): Evolution Garden guided walk

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.

This walk is held every fourth Saturday of the month. Please register 15 minutes before the tour. Registration is on a first-come-first-served basis at the Visitor Centre.

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

24 Apr (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.

Marine Fish guided walk at 3.30pm.

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 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

22 Apr (Thu): Singapore premier screening of "Tapped"

Come watch the Singapore premiere of Tapped, an arresting documentary on the business of botted water!
Kindly sponsored by Young NTUC, "Tapped" will be screened as a special Earth Day screening.

For tickets, please email olivia@greendrinkssingapore.com stating how many, and also please give your mobile number, because tickets are electronic and will be SMSed to you.

You can also sign up via http://yntuc.sg/tapped

Time: 7.45pm
Venue: NTUC Centre (Auditorium – 7th floor), One Marina Boulevard.
Website: http://www.youngntuc.org.sg/

22 Apr (Thu): 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.

To register, please contact Lili at lin_lili@nparks.gov.sg with your name and contact number.

Registration closes 2 days before the walk.

More details on the Pasir Ris Park website.

Time: 9-10am
Venue: Pasir Ris Park, Pasir Ris Green (Carpark C)
Website: http://www.nparks.gov.sg/

22-24 Apr (Thu-Sat): Earth Day at Pasir Ris

Earth Day started in 1970, founded by U.S. Senator, Gaylord Nelson. His objective then was to achieve a nationwide demonstration of concern for the environment. Since then, it has evolved into an annual global campaign and seeks to reaffirm the commitment to Earth’s protection.
This year, we have brought in exhibits from various institutions and workshops to demonstrate how to inject the "green element" into our everyday lives.

Join us at Pasir Ris Park and be inspired by the biodiversity we have, the range of eco-products and what others are doing to conserve our planet.

For enquiries and registration, please email Lili lin_lili@nparks.gov.sg.
  • Free admission to exhibitions at Piai Plaza
  • Registration is required for workshops (placement on first-come-first-served basis)
  • Send in name, age, contact number and name of workshop(s)

Date: 22 - 24 April 2010
Time: 10am to 5pm
Venue: Piai Plaza, Pasir Ris Park (Carpark B)
Website: http://www.nparks.gov.sg/

12-18 Apr: Highlights of the week ahead

For kids and the family

Walks in wild places

Film screening
  • 14 Apr (Wed): Charity Premier screening of "Earth"

Talks this week

For Nature Society (Singapore) members only

Singapore news highlights

Highlights of blogs about Singapore nature


Video clip of the week is of the awesome annual coral mass spawning in Singapore, shared by Karenne Tun. See also Orgy on Singapore Reefs: coral mass spawning on the Celebrating Singapore's Biodiversity blog.

Synchronous Mass Coral Spawning 2010, Singapore from Karenne Tun on Vimeo.

18 Apr (Sun): Birdwatching at Semakau Landfill

for Nature Society (Singapore) members only

A good time to visit Pulau Semakau for resident birds and migrant surprises. Resident attractions include the Great-billed Heron, Pacific Reef Egret and Malaysian Plover. There is also the possibility of seeing rare migrants like the Chinese Egret and Ashy Drongo. Return to mainland by 2pm. Free parking at Carpark 2 off West Coast Highway.

Non-refundable $28 fee for boat and administration. Send your cheque to the NSS office by 20 January with the All Purpose Form. Number of persons for this trip: 11, 22 or 33. Book your place with Ian Rickword at rickword@singnet.com.sg. IC or Passport mandatory for boarding. Strictly for members only on a first come first served basis.

Children under 12 not allowed (NEA regulation).

Time: 7.30am.
Meet at West Coast Pier near the Republic of Singapore Yacht Club.

Website: http://www.nss.org.sg/
Contact: email contact@nss.org.sg or call 6741 2036.

18 Apr (Sun): The Art of Paper Folding at Sungei Buloh

Would you like to learn how to fold these cute little frogs?
And not just frogs, you can get to learn how to fold many more interesting creatures, or even boats which we used to fold during our childhood days! This is a good opportunity for us to bring ourselves back to our childhood days, or to pass on the skill to our children, or a new skill for us to pick up and pass on to others.

Origami is not only fun, but is also an artistic way of interpreting animals, plants, objects, or basically anything you can think of!

The focus of this origami workshop will be on animals that can be found in our nature areas.

For more details see the Purple Mangroves blog.

Time: 2-3.30pm
Venue: Sungei Buloh Wetland Reserve, meet at the Information Counter at the Visitor Centre
Entry charges: While the event is free, admission fees to the Reserve apply: $1 per adult, 50cents per child/student/senior citizen.
Website and contact: http://www.sbwr.org.sg/

18 Apr (Sun): Free guided tour of the Jacobs Ballas Children's Garden

The Jacob Ballas Children's Garden is a specialized garden dedicated to children. The garden stimulates a sense of wonder for the plant world and provide happy memories for our child visitors. Through play and exploration, children learn about the importance of plants and conservation. This is the first garden of its kind in Asia.

Come and join our free one-hour guided tours of the Jacob Ballas Children's Garden conducted by trained Student Volunteer Guides from NUS High School.

Suitable for families & children in K1 - P6 levels.

Maximum 15 participants per group. To register, approach the Information Counter located at the Jacob Ballas Children's Garden at least 15 minutes before the tour starts.

The tour will be held every Saturday and Sunday from 6 March to 2 May with additional sessions on 2 April 2010, Good Friday.

Times: 10am, 11am, 2pm, 30pm
Venue: Jacob Ballas Children’s Garden, Bukit Timah Core of the Singapore Botanic Gardens
Website and contact: http://www.nparks.gov.sg/ or call 6471 9961 / 6465 0196 or nparks_sbg_edu@nparks.gov.sg.

18 Apr (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.

Mandarin guided tour at 9.45-11.15am. Please register at 67941401 to book this free guided tour. A minimum of 5 participants to start the tour. Limited to maximum 15 persons.

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

12-17 Apr: Highlights of the week ahead

For kids and the family

Walks in wild places

Film screening
  • 14 Apr (Wed): Charity Premier screening of "Earth"

Talks this week

For Nature Society (Singapore) members only

Registration now open

Singapore news highlights

Highlights of blogs about Singapore nature


Video clip of the week is of the awesome annual coral mass spawning in Singapore, shared by Karenne Tun. See also Orgy on Singapore Reefs: coral mass spawning on the Celebrating Singapore's Biodiversity blog.

Synchronous Mass Coral Spawning 2010, Singapore from Karenne Tun on Vimeo.

17 Apr (Sat): Talk on "Sponges and You"

What are sponges? Lim Swee Cheng, author of "A Guide to Sponges of Singapore" will tell you how sponges rank among the oldest and most fascinating animals in the world. Yes, sponges are animals!

What are the other kinds of sponges that can be found in Singapore waters and just how many are they? He will also share with you his discoveries from two years of searching and identification of sponges in Singapore waters.

Register by emailing lim_wei_ling@nparks.gov.sg by 16 Apr (Fri).

Time: 10am - 12pm
Venue: Singapore Botanic Gardens, Botany Centre Function Hall
Website: http://www.nparks.gov.sg

17 Apr (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.

Booking now online until 10 Apr.

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 and contact: http://www.nparks.gov.sg/

17 Apr (Sat): Talk on "Conservation of Native Orchids in Singapore"

Approximately 226 species of native orchids have been recorded in Singapore over the years. Of these 178 are considered to be extinct, and only five are common.

The orchid conservation programme aims to monitor existing species, explore ways to conserve their germplasm, and increase their numbers in natural, semi-natural, and urban environments. This will be carried out through ex-situ seedling culture and subsequent re-introduction into appropriate habitats, including roadside trees, parks and natural areas.

In the first phase of the programme, we have successfully propagated and re-introduced 5 species of native orchids, namely, Grammatophyllum speciosum, Bulbophyllum vaginatum, Bulbophyllum membranaceum, Cymbidium finlaysonianum and Cymbidium bicolor. Starting in October 2009, we embarked on a new phase which aims to introduce two new species every year. Over the next three years, nearly 5500 plants will be planted.

Dr Yam Tim Wing is a Senior Researcher at the Singapore Botanic Gardens responsible for the orchid breeding program and administers a programme designed to conserve the native orchids of Singapore by propagating and reintroducing these species into natural areas in the country. He is a frequent speaker at international orchid conferences and is the author of “Orchids of the Singapore Botanic Gardens”, a book published by NParks.

Saving our orchids and enjoying them too Botanic Gardens digs in to rescue endangered species and revive others, Grace Chua, Straits Times 9 Jun 09;

Time: 3-4pm
Venue: Bukit Merah Library
Website: http://www.nparks.gov.sg/

17 Apr (Sat): Free guided tour of the Jacobs Ballas Children's Garden

The Jacob Ballas Children's Garden is a specialized garden dedicated to children. The garden stimulates a sense of wonder for the plant world and provide happy memories for our child visitors. Through play and exploration, children learn about the importance of plants and conservation. This is the first garden of its kind in Asia.

Come and join our free one-hour guided tours of the Jacob Ballas Children's Garden conducted by trained Student Volunteer Guides from NUS High School.

Suitable for families & children in K1 - P6 levels.

Maximum 15 participants per group. To register, approach the Information Counter located at the Jacob Ballas Children's Garden at least 15 minutes before the tour starts.

The tour will be held every Saturday and Sunday from 6 March to 2 May with additional sessions on 2 April 2010, Good Friday.

Times: 10am, 11am, 2pm, 30pm
Venue: Jacob Ballas Children’s Garden, Bukit Timah Core of the Singapore Botanic Gardens
Website and contact: http://www.nparks.gov.sg/ or call 6471 9961 / 6465 0196 or nparks_sbg_edu@nparks.gov.sg.

17 Apr (Sat): Guided walk at the 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.

This walk is held every fourth Saturday of the month. Please register 15 minutes before the tour. Registration is on a first-come-first-served basis at the Visitor Centre.

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

17 Apr (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

16 Apr (Fri): A series of talks "Zoological Explorations in Singapore"

An evening dedicated to conserving Singapore's biodiversity! In celebration of the International Year of Biodiversity 2010, presented by the Department of Biological Sciences at the National University of Singapore.
Guest of Honor - Professor Tommy Koh
Ambassador-At-Large at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs;
Special Adviser of the Institute of Policy Studies and the National Heritage Board

Program

5:00 pm - Introduction and talk by Prof. Tommy Koh
5:15 pm - Conservation Projects on Flagship Species in Singapore (Student Talks)

* Is there Hope For Saving The Banded Leaf Monkey In Singapore??
* Midnight Secrets of Pulau Ubin - Greater Mouse Deer on Pulau Ubin, Singapore
* Johnson's Freshwater Crab - a National Treasure in Peril
* Stalking Fruit bandits: The Common Palm Civet ('Toddycat') in Siglap

6:15pm - Summary and Outlook by Prof. Peter Ng
6:30pm - Refreshment

The event is free but registration is required: online registration.

Time: 5-7pm
Venue: Lim Seng Tjoe Lecture Theatre (LT27), Lower Kent Ridge Road, National University of Singapore
Website: http://www.dbs.nus.edu.sg/events/2010/public_lecture.html

16 Apr (Fri): Talk on "Volunteering for Mother Earth" by Grant Pereira

In the spirit of Earth Day, the Singapore Botanic Gardens is very pleased to present founder of The Green Volunteers, Grant Pereira, who will be sharing with us his experiences as a volunteer and activist in environmental and social causes, both locally and internationally.
Grant believes in getting his feet wet and hands dirty. The Volunteers do reforestation projects both locally and overases, which includes helping hilltribes in Northern Thailand. Grant also brings university students to Thailand for elephant conservation and reforestation, and orang utan projects in Indonesia and Sandakan, Sabah. In Johor, he has just launched a hornbill breeding project. On-going projects include mangrove replanting and a new programme S.P.R.O.U.T.S (Singaporeans Proudly Replanting our Unique Trees and Shrubs).

On the international front, Grant is the Asian education coordinator, and sits on the board of advisors of Sea Shepherd Conservation Society. Needless to say, Grant has won many awards for his work. In Singapore, the Green Volunteers also work closely with NParks - leading monthly nature walks at Fort Canning Park and jointly launched a Butterfly Garden at Fort Canning Park recently.

In this talk, Grant will share his more than 30 years experiences as an activist in environmental and social causes, both locally and internationally. Post-talk, feel free to join Grant for a walk in the Singapore Botanic Gardens.

Time: talk 4-5pm, followed by a walk in the Gardens.
Venue: Function Hall, Botany Centre, Singapore Botanic Gardens.
Website: http://www.nparks.gov.sg/

16 Apr (Fri): Talk on "Field monitoring and conservation interventions within the Johor Wildlife Conservation Project"

Dr Melvin Gumal, Wildlife Conservation Society shares how tigers and wildlife are being protected in the rainforests across the causeway at the Endau Rompin Johor National Park.
Register with toh_yuet_hsin@nparks.gov.sg by 12noon 14 Apr.

Time: 11am
Venue: Function Hall, Botany Centre, Singapore Botanic Gardens
Website: http://www.nparks.gov.sg/

16 Apr (Fri): Walk at Fort Canning Park

Revisiting History, Embracing Nature - Heritage on The Hill

Join us for a leisurely stroll back into time to rediscover our rich heritage within this verdant oasis in the heart of the city.

Standing serenely amidst the bustling sprawl of the city, Fort Canning Park has plenty to be discovered and much to behold. Find out about the many historical layers of this hill which is irrefutably intertwined with the history of our nation.

Once the seat of Malay royalty in the 14th century and home to colonial governors in the 19th, it became a military base during the Second World War. Today, a display of ancient relics dating back to the 14th century as well as the Fort Gate, remnant of the fortress built in the 1860s, are reminders of Singapore’s rich past.

Explore the world of spices as you walk into the Spice Garden which was part of the original tract of Singapore's first botanical and experimental garden. Learn about the importance of spice back then as well as how it has integrated into our lives today.

Whether it is botanical or historical, learning about our heritage is really just a walk in the park.

Walk is moderately easy but will involve walking up slopes and steps so do come dressed comfortably.

Session is for group booking only. For registration and enquiries, please call 63321200 or 63321302 or email surinam_sumsudin@nparks.gov.sg

Time: 3.30-5.30pm
Venue: Meet along courtyard opposite NParks Visitor Centre, Fort Canning Centre
Cost: $60 for every 15pax
Website: http://www.nparks.gov.sg/

14 Apr (Wed): Talk on "Catching A Dragon: The Pre-War Wildlife Trade in Singapore and Indonesia"

Upon its discovery in 1912, the Komodo dragon became an animal that zoos and natural history museums around the world desired. Found only on a few small islands in Eastern Indonesia, scientists, adventurers and publicity seekers mounted expeditions to capture this magnificent creature, in a land that was publicized as a 'lost world' of dinosaurs.

This fascinating talk will focus on the wildlife trade in Singapore, Malaya and Indonesia before World War II, featuring a range of interesting personalities from Frank Buck and Lady Clementine Churchill to King Kong, and how their adventures in Southeast Asia led to reforms in how animals are captured in the region, as well as the creation of wildlife reserves.

Admission is free. All are welcome.

Registration is required. Please email nhb_nm_lectures@nhb.gov.sg with your name and email address.

Speaker’s Profile
Timothy P. Barnard is an Associate Professor in the Department of History at the National University of Singapore. His main area of research is on the cultural and environmental history of Southeast Asia, with particular attention to the Malay world. He has published a number of articles and book chapters on Malay film in Singapore, and is currently working on a book on the history of the Komodo Dragon.

More details on the National Museum of Singapore website.

Time: 7pm
Venue: National Museum of Singapore, The Salon, Level 1
Website: http://nationalmuseum.sg/

14 Apr (Wed): Charity Premier screening of "Earth"

How well do we know planet Earth? Using the most advanced film-making methods ever developed, EARTH takes us on a tour of our home as we’ve never seen it before.

In a time when the world-wide awareness of the fragility of our home planet is gaining momentum, this film fascinates the audience in a gentle way and spurs you to consider the effects of your actions on its current state.

BBC and Greenlight Media AG bring you a remarkable story of three animal families on a journey across our planet -- polar bears, elephants and humpback whales. Filmed with the newest exposure techniques, showcasing spectacular aerial shots and five years in production close-up views, EARTH captures perspectives not usually seen by most people.

The Singapore Environment Council (SEC) invites you to support this charity movie premiere in conjunction with celebrations of EARTH Day.

The funds raised will be used for our public awareness and education programmes in Schools and the community. Your support for this cause is important in encouraging and inspiring the children, and raising awareness of individuals towards environmental conservation.

The movie will be screened at SHAW Lido - the largest and latest movie hall with digital screens.

More about the movie.

Time: 7pm
Venue: Shaw Lido 1
Cost: $30 (includes pre-movie reception)
Contact: Joe Lim at 6337 6062 or earth@sec.org.sg.

5-11 Apr: Highlights of the week ahead

For kids and the family

Walks in wild places

For nature lovers

Talks

For Nature Society (Singapore) members only

Registration now open

Singapore environment news highlights

Some interesting blog posts


Photo of the week is this gorgeous nudibranch on a seafan taken during the Hantu Blog's 6th Anniversary Dive. Check out more fabulous photos of our living reefs at Pulau Hantu, with photos too of birds and other wildlife on this wonderful island of ours.