31 Mar (Sat): Celebrate Earth Hour 2012

Earth Hour 2012 @ Orchard

Head down to Orchard Road on Saturday, 31 March 2012 with your friends and family to celebrate Earth Hour with the rest of the global community. Join in the festivities with a live concert and eco-carnival, witness the first 60+ SINGAPORE human formation and count down to the lights-off event at 8.30pm


Time: 6.30pm – 10.00 pm
Venue: Orchard Road (Nearest MRT: Orchard and Somerset)
Website and contact: http://earthhour.wwf.sg/

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31 Mar (Sat): HortPark Butterfly Garden guided tour

HortPark's Butterfly Garden is a 150-sqm landscaped theme garden comprising an enclosure and an outdoor garden. Providing a visual feast of tropical plants and nearly 20 species of native butterflies, the Butterfly Garden enables visitors to learn about the different stages of metamorphosis from egg to caterpillar into butterfly. Within the enclosure, visitors are greeted with an up close and personal encounter with these flying jewels and can observe how pupae emerge into adult butterflies before taking their maiden flight.

The Butterfly Garden also serves as an experimental garden for National Parks Board to work on a Butterfly Species Recovery Programme to research on suitable nectar and host plants for breeding a variety of butterfly species, including locally extinct species such as Clipper (Parthenos sylvia) and Common Sergeant (Athyma perius).

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 free and is held every last Saturday of the month.

Time: 9-11am, please gather at the Butterfly Garden for the tour
Website: http://www.nparks.gov.sg/
Contact: 6471 5601

31 Mar (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 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

31 Mar (Sat): Kids events at Gardeners' Day Out at HortPark

Lots of events for kids and the family during Gardeners' Day Out at HortPark

Garden Tours suitable for kids
9am and 4.3pm in mandarin, 10.30am and 3pm in English.

Vegetable Harvesting Time!
9.30am, 11am, 2.30pm and 4pm.
$3 per parent and child.

Birds of the Garden by Cicada Tree Eco-Place
10-11am. Free

Nature Sketching and Demo with Tham Puisan
10am-noon, 2-5pm. Free

1, 2, Tree! Family Card Game
9am-noon, 2-6pm. Free

Pre-registration is required and is on a first-come, first-served basis. Closing date 1 week before each programme. All progremmes will only commence with a minimum of 15 participants. For more information please contact HortPark Visitor Services Centre at 6471-5601 or NPARKS_HortPark@nparks.gov.sg.

Venue: HortPark
Website and contact: http://nparks.gov.sg/

31 Mar (Sat): Mangrove Ecology Walk at Sungei Buloh Wetland Reserve

What is a mangrove ecosystem? What interesting plants and animals can be found in this special habitat? Which are the ones we can eat? How can we conserve them better? Spend your weekend at Sungei Buloh Wetland Reserve with us and get these questions and many more answered!

This is the first of a series of ecology walks organised by members of the Southeast Asian Biodiversity Society and proceeds collected will support the society’s conservation education and research in the region .

This walk will be led by Teo Siyang and Yong Ding Li. Siyang has a keen interest in plants, as well as over two years of guiding experience in natural habitats around Singapore. He has also published a number of papers on Singapore’s natural history. Ding Li is keen in tropical ecology and has watched wildlife for fifteen years. Both of them hope to make a difference for nature conservation through active education and capacity building.

To register, please email Teo Siyang at sassy19a@gmail.com.

Time: 9.15-11.5am, meet at the Reserve Visitor Centre.
Cost: $12 per person. Free for children below 10 years old. Excludes Reserve admission fee of $1 for adult and $0.50 for children.
Website: http://seabiodiversity.wordpress.com/

29 Mar (Thu): Green Drinks talk on "Secret Shores of Singapore"

Come for Ria Tan's talk about our shores at Green Drinks, thanks to Olivia Choong. No need to swim, no need to dive! Ordinary people can experience much of Singapore's amazing marine life on the intertidal shore.
A4 Poster: Raffles Lighthouse
Otters, wild dolphins, sea turtles! Nemos, sea snakes, living corals and more. From accessible shores like Changi and Tanah Merah, to our many huge submerged reefs.

19-25 Mar: Highlights of the week ahead

For kids and the family

Walks in wild places


For Nature Society (Singapore) members only

Highlights of other upcoming events

25 Mar (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: 8.30-11.30am, meet at Information Counter, Visitor Centre.
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

25 Mar (Sun): Mandarin guided tour 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.

Pre-register by calling 67941401, minimum 5 participants to start the tour and maximum 15.  The walks are weather permitting and may merge with other activities at the Reserve.
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, meet at the Information Counter, 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 Mar (Sun): The Art of Paper Folding at Sungei Buloh

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: 11.30am-12.30pm
Venue: Sungei Buloh Wetland Reserve, meet at the Information Counter at the Visitor CentreEntry 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/

24 Mar (Sat): Free walk at Pasir Ris Mangrove boardwalk with the Naked Hermit Crabs

There are fascinating mangroves at Pasir Ris Park! Easily explored through the boardwalks  and it's open even at night! Join the Naked Hermit Crabs for an evening stroll through this interesting but often overlooked mangrove.
Here, we are sure to see lots of crazy tree climbing crabs, delightful giant mudskippers and cool monitor lizards. Pasir Ris is also one of the few places where nesting herons are easily observed. And as the sun sets, we might spot some nocturnal animals like watersnakes. If we're lucky, we may catch a glimpse of the rare Mangrove pitta or the family of otters that have been seen here! More details on the Naked Hermit Crabs blog.

Register through this online form. A confirmation note will be sent.

Time: 5pm. We should end at around 6.30pm, just before sunset.
Meeting point: Pasir Ris Park, Carpark C, meet near the first toilets nearest the entrance to the carpark. The meeting point is a short stroll from the Pasir Ris MRT station.
Website and contact: http://nakedhermitcrabs.blogspot.com/

24 Mar (Sat): Evolution Garden guided tour

Take a journey through time, from the fiery planet that our world was in ancient times before memory, through the planet of dinosaurs, and into the modern world of 250,000 different flowering plants we enjoy today.

Journey through time with our volunteer guides in this one-hour tour.

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 Singapore Botanic Gardens Visitor Centre.

Time: 9am (English tour)
Venue: Register at Singapore Botanic Gardens Visitor Centre before the tour starts.
Website: http://www.nparks.gov.sg/
Contact: Visitor Services 6471 7361

24 Mar (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.

Free Mandarin Guided Tour at 3.30-4.15pm. Pre-register by calling 67941401, minimum 5 participants to start the tour and maximum 15. Meet at the Information Counter, Visitor Centre.

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

24 Mar (Sun): Birdwatching at Semakau Landfill

for Nature Society (Singapore) members only

March is a good month to visit Semakau for its varied birdlife. In addition to the resident attractions like the Great-billed Heron, Pacific Reef Egret and Malaysian Plover, it is possible to see rare migrants such as the Chinese Egret and Ashy Drongo.

More details on the NSS website.

Time: 7.30am-2pm. 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.

12-18 Mar: Highlights of the week ahead

More school holiday fun for kids and the family

Walks in our wild place

Make a difference!

For Nature Society (Singapore) members only

You can also explore on your own! Check out the many DIY Trail Guides on the NParks website. Explore the new Berlayar Creek boardwalk, check out our heritage trees, visit Pulau Ubin and more! More about our wild places on wildsingapore.

A tip to avoid the crowds on school holiday weekends, come early. That's when wildlife is more active anyway. And leave before it gets too hot.


Announcements
  • Kranji Nature Trail closed for construction of Phase 2 of the Sungei Buloh Wetland Reserve Masterplan. Works are expected to be completed by end of 2013. More details on the Reserve website.

18 Mar (Sun): Fun walk along the Southern Ridges

Take your family on a leisurely stroll through the Southern Ridges, a soothing sanctuary of greenery that is steeped in history and home to some of nature's greatest gifts of flora and fauna. Highlights of the free tour include the Henderson Waves, Sembcorp Forest of Giants, Forest Walk and Singing Forest.

This walk is conducted by the Sembcorp volunteer guides. The walk is free and made possible by Garden City Fund and Sembcorp.

This walk is part of Connecting with Nature, March 2012, The Southern Ridges. Although the walk is free, pre-registration is required and is on a first-come, first-served basis. Registration closes one week before each programme. Programme will commence only with a minimum of 15 participants. Register with the HortPark Visitor Services Centre at 6471-5601 or NPARKS_HortPark@nparks.gov.sg

Time: 9-11am
Venue: Mount Faber Park, entrance of Henderson Waves.
Website: http://www.nparks.gov.sg/

18 Mar (Sun): Butterfly Walk at Mount Faber Park

For Nature Society (Singapore) members only

From Seah Im Food Court, we are going to take a leisurely walk up the Marang Trail which will lead us to the Mount Faber Park. Species encountered at this park include the Chocolate Grass Yellow, King Crow, Plain Nawab, Yamfly, Common Imperial, Fluffy Tit and Acacia Blue. Please remember to bring along your NSS Butterfly Field Guide and enough water to last for three hours!

Time: 9.30am-12.30pm. Meet at Seah Im Food Center near Car Park 'D'
Website: http://www.nss.org.sg/
Contact: email contact@nss.org.sg or call 6741 2036.

18 Mar (Sun): Plant Walk at Berlayar Boardwalk

For Nature Society (Singapore) members only

Meet Dr Shawn Lum and the Plant Group at the start of the Berlayar Boardwalk, which forms part of the Labrador Nature Reserve. The boardwalk's entrance is conveniently located next to the recently-opened Labrador Park MRT Station (Circle Line). We will take a close look at the mangrove plants that line this small creek. NSS Kids who are attending the walk with their parents will have a dedicated kids guide.

Time: 9am
Website: http://www.nss.org.sg/
Contact: email contact@nss.org.sg or call 6741 2036.

18 Mar (Sun): Pulau Ubin Ramble

For Nature Society (Singapore) members only

This 8 km/ 4 hour ramble will be led by Ali Jafaar of the Nature Ramblers. Explore numerous trails and savour the rustic charm of the Pulau Ubin countryside. Expect to see Malay kampongs, fish ponds, coconut groves and fruit trees. Meet at 7:45 am at Changi Point Jetty to board the boat to Ubin. Boat fares ($2.50 each way) are to be borne by participants. Booking not required for this trip. For members only.

Time: 7.45am-12noon
Venue: Meet at 7:45 am at Changi Point Jetty to board the boat to Ubin. Boat fares ($2.50 each way) are to be borne by participants.
Website: http://www.nss.org.sg/
Contact: email contact@nss.org.sg or call 6741 2036.

17 Mar (Sat): Creatures of the Night! a workshop for kids

Besides being nocturnal, are there other similarities between bats and snakes? How are they different? Where are we likely to find them? What types of bats and snakes can we find? Join us for an evening walk at Kent Ridge Park and you will discover these answers and more!

This workshop is suitable for children 5 years and older, and is conducted by Cicada Tree Eco Place.

This workshop is part of Connecting with Nature, March 2012, The Southern Ridges. Pre-registration is required and is on a first-come, first-served basis. Registration closes one week before each programme. Programme will commence only with a minimum of 15 participants. Register with the HortPark Visitor Services Centre at 6471-5601 or NPARKS_HortPark@nparks.gov.sg

Time: 6-8pm
Venue: HortPark, Hands-On House
Cost: $25 per child
Website: http://www.nparks.gov.sg/

17 Mar (Sat): Guided walk at the Sensory Trail, Pulau Ubin

Experience Ubin's wonderful nature through your senses along our Sensory Trail. This is an excellent introduction to the rustic and natural character of the island. You will be able to touch, see or smell fruit trees, spices and herbs for cooking, plants used in traditional medicine and native plants of the mangrove forest. 

Booking now online until 10 Mar.

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. More on how to get to Pulau Ubin.
Cost: $60 per group of 15 persons, maximum 6 groups
Website and contact: http://www.nparks.gov.sg/

17 Mar (Sat): Fort Canning Spice Trail guided walk

"Revisiting History, Embracing Nature"
Join us as we guide you along The Fort Canning Spice Trail and discover the fascinating world of spices.

This trail sits on the site of Singapore’s first experimental and botanical   garden. A small replica of the 19ha garden, it now has a collection of   more than a hundred species of plants - spice, herbs, medicinal,   economical and ornamentals. Nutmeg and Clove trees, which were planted extensively in the first garden, can be found there as well.

Other attractions along this trail also includes the Archaeological Dig, which showcases the  actual  excavation site, the only such exhibition in modern Singapore, and Keramat, believed to be a tomb of Singapore’s last king, Sultan Iskandar Syah.

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 is held every third Saturday of the month.

You may also opt for the Heritage on the Hill tour, which will bring you around the park  and  discover the events that have changed and shaped the face of Fort Canning over the years.

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

Time: 4-6pm
Venue: Meet courtyard opposite NParks Visitor Centre, Fort Canning Centre
Website: http://www.nparks.gov.sg/

17 Mar (Sat): Young Naturalists 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 online registration form on the Reserve website.

Time: 9am- 5pm
Cost: Each participant needs to purchase a young naturalist passport from the 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

17 Mar (Sat): A walk in an ancient forest, Bukit Timah Nature Reserve

Bukit Timah Nature Reserve is the largest surviving primary rainforest in Singapore. Come and join us on a fascinating journey of discovery to learn more about the natural wonders of Bukit Timah Nature Reserve and why we should protect and conserve its complex ecosystem and diversity.

At this walk, the guide will introduce you to the common native flora and fauna found in the primary rainforest.

This guided walk is suitable for families with children and groups of not more than 5. Along a slightly undulating natural path, 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.

Sign up on this online form.

Time: 9.25am-10.30am. Meet at the Bukit Timah Nature Reserve Visitor Centre, at the ranger counter.
Website: http://www.nparks.gov.sg/

17 Mar (Sat): National Orchid Garden guided tour

Explore the beauty and diversity of orchids in the National Orchid Garden, Singapore Botanic Gardens.

Since 1859, orchids have been closely associated with the Singapore Botanic Gardens. The products of the Gardens' orchid breeding programme, which began in 1928, deserve a place where they can be displayed in their full splendour. The very design of these orchids is, one could say, 'hand-crafted' by the Gardens' horticultural staff, dedicated to bringing out the finest in any hybrid cross.

Over 1000 species and 2,000 hybrids are now found in the Gardens' collection, with about 600 species and hybrids on display. Every year, more vibrant and enduring hybrids are added on. So that all may admire and enjoy their diversity, richness and beauty, the National Orchid Garden now offers a permanent showcase, the largest display of tropical orchids in the world.

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 (English) and 4pm (Mandarin), 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

17 Mar (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 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

17 Mar (Sat): FREE walk at Pasir Ris Mangrove boardwalk with the Naked Hermit Crabs

There are fascinating mangroves at Pasir Ris Park! Easily explored through the boardwalks  and it's open even at night! Join the Naked Hermit Crabs for an evening stroll through this interesting but often overlooked mangrove. Here, we are sure to see lots of crazy tree climbing crabs, delightful giant mudskippers and cool monitor lizards. Pasir Ris is also one of the few places where nesting herons are easily observed. And as the sun sets, we might spot some nocturnal animals like watersnakes. If we're lucky, we may catch a glimpse of the rare Mangrove pitta or the family of otters that have been seen
here!


More details on the Naked Hermit Crabs blog.

Register through this online form. A confirmation note will be sent.

Time: 5pm. We should end at around 6.30pm, just before sunset.
Meeting point: Pasir Ris Park, Carpark C, meet near the first toilets nearest the entrance to the carpark. The meeting point is a short stroll from the Pasir Ris MRT station.
Website and contact: http://nakedhermitcrabs.blogspot.com/

17 Mar (Sat): Birdwatching at Bukit Brown

Dr Ho Hua Chew of the Nature Society (Singapore) leads this walk around this unique and quiet corner of Singapore, while it is still relatively undisturbed. This area is partially open with some huge trees. Expect to see a mix of parkland, open-country and forest birds such as babblers, bulbuls, doves, flowerpeckers, parakeets, sunbirds and woodpeckers.

This walk is open to the public

Time: 7.30-11.00am
Venue: Meet at the entrance of the historic Bukit Brown Chinese Cemetery at Lorong Halwa. This is near the junction of Sime Road and Kheam Hock Road.
Website: http://www.nss.org.sg/
Contact: email contact@nss.org.sg or call 6741 2036.

17 Mar (Sat): Horseshoe Crab Population and Distribution Survey

This event is open to the public. The island-wide Horseshoe Crab (HSC) Population and Distribution Survey will start at 11am at various parts of Singapore. This is a follow-up to the last survey held in March 2009. It involves a search for the 2 species of HSCs found in Singapore and conducting a questionnaire survey of recreational and artisanal fishermen at designated potential HSC habitats. An exhaustive transect search will also be conducted at the Mandai mudflats to determine HSC population density. This survey will provide useful information on the population and distribution interval changes of both species of HSCs found in Singapore.

Please register your interest for the survey by clicking on the 'ATTEND' button on the Nature Society (Singapore) website and indicate your preferred survey area in Singapore (northeast, southeast, northwest or southwest) under 'Special Request'. 

Time: 11am-2pm
Website: http://www.nss.org.sg/
Contact: email contact@nss.org.sg or call 6741 2036.

15 Mar (Thu): Kampong Ubin Walk with Cicada Tree Eco Place

This nature-guided stroll will bring us through a herb and spice garden, coffee and fruit tree orchards, the mangrove forest ecosystem, grassland and woodlands, coconut plantation, and bypasses 'kampong' village houses and their backyard food gardens. Along the way on the dirt trails, we may encounter wild pigs, jungle chickens, monitor lizards and a diversity of birds and bugs among the wayside wildflowers. This walk will end in the main village which remains almost unchanged since the 1960s.

Suitable for all.

Pre-registration and pre-payment is required. To register email Celine Low at contact@cicadatree.org.sg

Time: 9-11am
Cost: $13 per person (adult or child), excluding bumboat ride. The bumboat ride is $2.50 per person one way. Minimum 20 pax for walk to go ahead.

Website: http://www.cicadatree.org.sg

12 Mar (Mon): "Say Hello to Seashore Trees" for kids at Pasir Ris

Come learn about trees that grow by the sea. Discover the animals which make these trees their home.

Make the day more meaningful and enriching for your little ones by enrolling them in our interactive and fun filled workshops and nature trails. Let them explore, be fascinated and learn about Coastal Biodiversity and leave with pleasant memories.

The fun, exploration and learning does not stop after the workshop, there’s plenty to do @ Pasir Ris Park

This programme is brought to you by NParks Coastal Parks.

Minimum 15 persons per session. Please register 5 days before the activity. To register, email esther_tay@nparks.gov.sg providing name(s), age(s) of participant(s) and at least one contact number

Time: 9.30-11.30am
Venue: Shelter besides Toilet E1
Cost: $20 per child (aged 5-11).
Website and contact: http://www.nparks.gov.sg/

5-11 Mar: Highlights of the week ahead

For kids and the family - It's the school holidays and there's lots to do!


Lots MORE nature activities for kids next week too! More on the Celebrating Singapore's Biodiversity blog.

Walks in wild places

Talks this week

You can also explore on your own! Check out the many DIY Trail Guides on the NParks website. Explore the new Berlayar Creek boardwalk, check out our heritage trees, visit Pulau Ubin and more! More about our wild places on wildsingapore.

A tip to avoid the crowds on school holiday weekends, come early. That's when wildlife is more active anyway. And leave before it gets too hot.

Announcements
  • Kranji Nature Trail closed for construction of Phase 2 of the Sungei Buloh Wetland Reserve Masterplan. Works are expected to be completed by end of 2013. More details on the Reserve website.

11 Mar (Sun): Greet our Forest Giants! a workshop for kids

Do you know what tree produces the Buah Keluak that your grandmother cooks in her Curry Buah Keluak? What does the Buah Kedondong Tree look like? Join this guided nature walk and greet some lovely forest trees. Find out about the animals and plants that live on and around them. Planted along the Southern Ridges, these forest trees form the Sembcorp Forest of Giants - an arboretum project undertaken by the National Parks Board as part of its efforts to enhance biodiversity within urban areas.

This workshop is conducted by Cicada Tree Eco Place.

This workshop is part of Connecting with Nature, March 2012, The Southern Ridges. Pre-registration is required and is on a first-come, first-served basis. Registration closes one week before each programme. Programme will commence only with a minimum of 15 participants. Register with the HortPark Visitor Services Centre at 6471-5601 or NPARKS_HortPark@nparks.gov.sg

Time: 9.30-11.30am
Venue: Telok Blangah Hill Park, Multi-Purpose Plaza
Cost: $10 per child, made possible by the Garden City Fun and Sembcorp Industries.
Website: http://www.nparks.gov.sg/

10 Mar (Sat): Talk on "The High Flyer" about seed dispersal for kids

Just like how seeds need to move away from the shade of the parent plant to grow better, children will recognise the need to move out of their comfort zones for greater growth. In this programme, children will be able to appreciate the wonderful and effective designs of winged seeds. They will also make models of their own winged seed and try them out!

Jiahui is a manager from the National Parks Board. She enjoys gardening and is passionate about spreading her love for green and nature to the public, to let them appreciate the wonderful world of plants.

This talk for children aged 12 and below. The talk is free and registration is not required. For enquiries, please contact Ms Zheng Jiahui at zheng_jiahui@nparks.gov.sg

Time: 2-3pm
Venue: Marine Parade Public Library
Website: http://www.nparks.gov.sg/

10 Mar (Sat): Seaside Treasure Hunt for kids at Pasir Ris

Come find seashore treasures that are ours to protect! Kids will discover the unique animals and plants of our seashores!

Make the day more meaningful and enriching for your little ones by enrolling them in our interactive and fun filled workshops and nature trails. Let them explore, be fascinated and learn about Coastal Biodiversity and leave with pleasant memories.

The fun, exploration and learning does not stop after the workshop, there’s plenty to do @ Pasir Ris Park

This programme is brought to you by NParks Coastal Parks.

Minimum 15 persons per session. Please register 5 days before the activity. To register, email esther_tay@nparks.gov.sg providing name(s), age(s) of participant(s) and at least one contact number

Time: 3-5pm
Venue: Shelter besides Toilet E1
Cost: $20 per child (aged 5-11).
Website and contact: http://www.nparks.gov.sg/

10 Mar (Sat): Carnivorous Plants! a workshop for kids

Did you know that some plants have leaves that are so special that they can even digest insects? This is a workshop that shows you all kinds of leaves and discusses leaf shape, texture, colour, smell and function. Join us and get the chance to look closely at the leaves of the Venus Fly-trap and Sundew and also peer into the cups of a pitcher plant!

This workshop is suitable for children 5 years and older, and is conducted by Cicada Tree Eco Place.

This workshop is part of Connecting with Nature, March 2012, The Southern Ridges. Pre-registration is required and is on a first-come, first-served basis. Registration closes one week before each programme. Programme will commence only with a minimum of 15 participants. Register with the HortPark Visitor Services Centre at 6471-5601 or NPARKS_HortPark@nparks.gov.sg

Time: 10am-12noon
Venue: HortPark, Greenhouse (Workshop Area)
Cost: $25 per child
Website: http://www.nparks.gov.sg/

10 Mar (Sat): HeART for Nature - FREE workshop for kids

This FREE art workshop helps children to delve deep into their hearts to express nature in various themed art activities like drawing, fingerprinting, origami, puppet making. The children will also learn about our natural heritage.
Photo courtesy of Vanessa ChangSuitable for children aged 5 to 8 years (with parental supervision).

Limited spaces available. Register online or email vanessa_chang@nparks.gov.sg

Time: 9.30am - 10.30am. The workshop will be cancelled in the event of bad weather.
Venue: Dairy Farm Nature Park- Wallace Education Centre
Website and contact: http://www.nparks.gov.sg/

10 Mar (Sat): A walk with your neighbours - the macaques of Bukit Timah

The long-tailed macaques are the most conspicuous animals at Bukit Timah Nature Reserve. Although commonly seen, they are very misunderstood. Few seeing them realise anything about the social world these monkeys live in. They have kin networks, power struggles, friends, foes, and an otherwise complex social network. In many ways, they provide a mirror of our own sociality.

If you would like to learn more about your community and the interesting world of your neighbouring macaques at Bukit Timah, please join our walk, led by experts in these unique creatures.

Register at sg.monkey.walk@gmail.com, at least 3 days in advance. Do provide us with your name, contact number (in case of cancellation, we will contact you), number of adult and children participants (at most, 5 participants per registration). Upon receiving your registration, we will reply with a confirmation email. The walk will be cancelled if there is bad weather 45 minutes before the walk.

Time: 5-6.30pm
Venue: Bukit Timah Nature Reserve (Meeting point is at the Ranger Counter)
Website: http://www.nparks.gov.sg/

10 Mar (Sat): "A Forest No Less" in Bukit Batok Nature Park


Learn about the importance of the forest in your daily life!

This one hour tour at Bukit Batok Nature Park highlights the interesting plants and wildlife found in an established secondary forest habitat.

To register, please contact Ms Adelle at adelle_wang@nparks.gov.sg or Ms Loh at Loh_yurong@nparks.gov.sg or call 62738602.

Time: 9-10am
Venue: Meeting point 2, Bukit Batok Nature Park
Cost: $4 per person
Website and contact: http://www.nparks.gov.sg/

10 Mar (Sat): Trees of the Fort

Embark on this adventure and discover the secret lives of our heritage trees and more!
Our nature-loving guides from The Green Volunteers will walk you through this public park that has undergone a series of historical transformation through the centuries. Although much of the original vegetation has disappeared due to these changes, active greening efforts have converted this once formidable fort into an idyllic respite from the hustle and bustle of city life amidst lush and magnificent trees. Meet the Towering Kapok, Flaky Gelam, Gnarled Madras Thorn and many more.

Learn how plants and animals have co-existed and to a certain extent become co-dependant on one another for survival. Immerse yourself in the sounds of nature orchestrated by chirping birds and shrilling cicadas as you walk along the trail.

In a vastly developed urban jungle, Fort Canning offers that unique pocket of biodiversity to appreciate the greenery within our vibrant city.

This is a free public outreach programme in the park.

Time: 4-6 pm
Venue: Meet at courtyard, opposite NParks Visitor Centre, Fort Canning Centre
Website: http://www.nparks.gov.sg/
Contact: 6332 1200 or lee_weiling@nparks.gov.sg or or visit thegreenvolunteers.blogspot.com

10 Mar (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 event and how to get to Chek Jawa, Pulau Ubin on the Adventures with the Naked Hermit Crabs blog.

Time: 9.30am meet at the Chek Jawa Info Kiosk, Pulau Ubin.
Duration: Two hours
Cost: no charge for now, but donations accepted.
Website: http://nakedhermitcrabs.blogspot.com/
Contact: nakedhermitcrabs@gmail.com

10 Mar (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 (Enligsh) and 4pm (Mandarin); 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

10 Mar (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 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 Feb - 4 Mar: Highlights of the week ahead

For kids and the family

Walks in wild places

Announcements
  • Kranji Nature Trail closed for construction of Phase 2 of the Sungei Buloh Wetland Reserve Masterplan. Works are expected to be completed by end of 2013. More details on the Reserve website. 
New places to explore

3 Mar (Sat): Mad about Monkeys - a workshop for kids

Monkeys are special. They are mammals just like we are. In Singapore, we have two species of monkeys that live wild and free. They are the Long-tailed macaque and the Banded Leaf monkey. Come learn all about monkeys and other primates, and how we can make a positive difference in their lives

This workshop is suitable for children 5 years and older, and is conducted by Cicada Tree Eco Place.


This workshop is part of Connecting with Nature, March 2012, The Southern Ridges. Pre-registration is required and is on a first-come, first-served basis. Registration closes one week before each programme. Programme will commence only with a minimum of 15 participants. Register with the HortPark Visitor Services Centre at 6471-5601 or NPARKS_HortPark@nparks.gov.sg

Time: 10am-12noon
Venue: HortPark, Greenhouse (Workshop Area)
Cost: $25 per child
Website: http://www.nparks.gov.sg/

3 Mar (Sat): HeART for Nature - FREE workshop for kids

This FREE art workshop helps children to delve deep into their hearts to express nature in various themed art activities like drawing, fingerprinting, origami, puppet making. The children will also learn about our natural heritage.
Photo courtesy of Vanessa ChangSuitable for children aged 5 to 8 years (with parental supervision).

Limited spaces available. Register online or email vanessa_chang@nparks.gov.sg

Time: 9.30am - 10.30am. The workshop will be cancelled in the event of bad weather.
Venue: Lower Peirce Reservoir Park (big shelter next to fishing ground)
Website and contact: http://www.nparks.gov.sg/

3 Mar (Sat): Up Close and Personal @ Peirce

Free guided nature walk along the 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.

Sign up on this online form. Walks will be cancelled in the event of bad weather.

Time: 9.25am. Meet at Casuarina Entrance of the trail along Old Upper Thomson Road, which is a 2-minute walk from Casuarina Road. Location map
Tour duration: One-and-a-half hours. Suitable for young children
Website: http://www.nparks.gov.sg/

3 Mar (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.

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)

3 Mar (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 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