25-31 May: Highlights of the week ahead

For the kids and the family
Walks in wild places
Dive in wild places
More activities
Registration now open 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 Anchor tuskfish by Chay Hoon seen at Tanah Merah! Who could imagine the shores there could be so rich? Read more about it on her colourful clouds blog.

Anchor Tuskfish, originally uploaded by il_mare77.

31 May (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 trip and past exciting encounters.

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
Labels: , ,

31 May (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
Labels: , , ,

31 May (Sun): 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. 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. Write to nakedhermitcrabs@gmail.com

A message from the Crabs:

As we are expecting a HUGE turnout after our roadshow and in view that the school holidays are starting next weekend, we are requesting that you drop us an email to sign up for this walk. This will help us gauge the response and try to get more guides to come out to help.

As always, we ask that you come in small family and friend groups of not more than 6. Please don't organise an extended family group or a company outing. The Naked Hermit Crabs are, er.... small and vulnerable. We confess.... we will get overwhelmed with large groups.

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
Labels: , , , ,

30 May (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: 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
Labels: , , ,

30 May (Sat): Guided walk at HortPark

This free tour of HortPark features HortGardens, a collection of 20 theme gardens and the GardenPatch, a patchwork of display plots showcasing garden designs, concepts and products by local gardening-related companies. See nurserymen at work, propagating plants for our garden city.

This tour is conducted every last Saturday of the month.

Please register 15 minutes before the tour. Registration is on a first-come-first served basis.

Time: 10-11.30 am
Venue: Register at Visitor Information Counter @ HortPark
Website: http://www.nparks.gov.sg/
Contact: 64715601 or NPARKS_HortPark@nparks.gov.sg
Labels: , ,

30 May (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
Labels: , , , , ,

30 May (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.
Labels: , ,

28 May (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.

Eric Chew from Bud Cosmetics joins us this month to raise awareness of toxins in everyday skincare products. He will also share with us common myths and half-truths of the beauty industry. Bring your beauty products to find out what toxins it may contain, if any!

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
Labels: ,

28-31 May: "Let the River flow" by ACT 3 Theatrics (Singapore)

A story of courage, adventure, and the love of the environment with the resourceful use of recycled material in both prop and set design, this exciting performance will inspire children to believe that they are never too young to play an active role in saving their environment. Combining the magic of puppets and actors, this story is set in a peaceful forested area, where the flow of a cool clear river brings together the lives of a monkey, her baby, and two adventurous children. Trouble brews when unscrupulous villains start dumping waste material in the forest. The children take up the mighty challenge to restore the river flow and revive peaceful living in the forest. But will they succeed?

Established in July 1984, ACT 3 Theatrics is Singapore’s first professional theatre company. Based on the Living Room Theatre concept, the company, in addition to staging performances in structured auditoriums, takes the magic of drama out to wherever the audience is – schools, libraries, shopping centres, community clubs, parks and overseas sites.

More details on SISTIC

Time: Thu & Fri, 10am & 3pm, Sat & Sun, 10am & 2pm
Venue: National Museum The Atelier, Level 3
Cost: Exclude Booking Fee) S$15
Labels: ,

18-24 May: Highlights of the week ahead

For kids and the family
Special events
Walks in our wild places
Talks and films
Registration now open 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 Long-horned cowfish shared by James on his flickr. This marvellous fish and other amazing marine life was seen at Tanah Merah. Our shores are very much alive!

Longhorn Cowfish buddy buddy with Filefish, originally uploaded by [wj].

23-24 May (Sat & Sun): EnviroFest 2009

Nature comes to town! Bring the kids and the family to visit the special biodiversity trail featuring the rainforest, mangroves, freshwater and marine habitats of Singapore under one roof. Here, you can sign up for walks to see these for yourself. And join in the fun and games that volunteers have prepared.

Also part of this massive event are a wide range of lifestyle groups and organisations that highlight environmental issues and what you can do to make a difference. This is a great one-stop opportunity to learn about the many efforts that are on-going in Singapore for nature and the environment.

The participating groups include:
  • National Environment Agency
  • National Parks Board
  • Raffles Museum Toddycats!
  • Waterways Watch Society
  • Singapore Environment Council
  • Hantu Blog
  • Naked Hermit Crabs
  • Team Seagrass
  • Vegetarian Society
  • Nature Trekker Singapore
  • Cicada Tree Eco place
  • Jane Goodall Institute
  • Green Volunteers
  • Sea Shepherd
  • Anderson Junior College
  • Cedar Girls’ School
  • Mayflower Secondary School
  • Industrial Design Programme, NUS
  • Green Koncepts
  • COT ORGANICS
  • Eumora
  • Star Bamboo
  • Naviant Pte Ltd
Date: 23 and 24 May (Sat and Sun)
Time: 11am-8pm
Venue: Toa Payoh HDB Hub
Website and contact: http://envirofest.wordpress.com/
Labels: ,

24 May (Sun): Tour of Butterfly Garden & Lifestyle Corner at HortPark

Joined a free guided tour of these new attractions at HortPark – Butterfly Garden & Lifestyle Corner. Limited to 20 people per tour. To register for the guided tours, please call 6471 5601 or email NParks_HortPark@nparks.gov.sg at least 1 hour before the tour.

Time: 9-11am and again from 4-6pm
Venue: Meet at HortPark, Exhibition Gallery
Website: http://www.nparks.gov.sg/
Contact: NParks_HortPark@nparks.gov.sg
Labels: , ,

24 May (Sun): Raffles Museum of Biodiversity Research Open House

As part of International Museum Day, there's an Open House at the Raffles Museum of Biodiversity Research of the National University of Singapore. With free gallery and archives tours.
A hidden gem, RMBR houses more than 500,000 animals and plant specimens that you can get up close with. Children can marvel at spectacular animals ranging from dugongs, a two-metre tortoise, tigers, bats and more. They can also have fun competing against one another in animal-themed giant puzzles and paper craft stations. Don't forget to take this chance to join an exclusive tour of the museum’s three-storey archive section that is rarely opened for public viewing.

More about International Museum Day and about RMBR.

Here's a recent post about a visit to the Museum on the My Itchy Fingers blog.

Free Gallery Tour: 10 am, 12 noon, 2 pm and 4 pm
Free Archive Tour: 11 am, 1 pm and 3 pm
(Limited to 20 persons per tour)
How to get there: Shuttle bus service from Buona Vista MRT Station to Raffles Museum is available every 30 minutes from 9.45 am to 4.15 pm (except at 12.45 pm). Bus pick up point is at the bus stop along North Buona Vista Road, where the MOE building is located. More directions on the RMBR website.
Labels:

24 May (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
Labels: , , ,

23 May (Sat): Free screening of "Reason for Hope - A Spiritual Journey"

"Reason for Hope - A Spiritual Journey" is a biography of Dr Jane Goodall, world renowed primatologist and conservationist. It is particularly concerned with her spiritual development, and her message of hope that, working together, humans can overcome our differences and make the world safe and habitable for ourselves and the creatures our choices impact.

This is a great chance to learn about Dr Jane's inspirational life and research before her June visit to Singapore. Jane Goodall Institute (Singapore)leaders will lead a Q&A after the film.

Singapore Botanic Gardens together with Jane Goodall Institute (Singapore) are organisers of this screening.

Admission is free and on a first-come-first served basis.

Time: 11am - 1pm
Venue: Function Hall, Botany Centre Singapore Botanic Gardens
Website: www.janegoodall.org.sg
Contact: info@janegoodall.org.sg
Labels: ,

23 May (Sat): Talk on "Enhancing Butterfly Biodiversity in our Urban Parks and Gardens"

Mr S K Khew gives this talk. Singapore has effectively balanced urban development with the natural environment. With its ‘City in a Garden’ image, Singapore is well-known for its greenery despite its intensive land use and built environment. With the rich flora and horticultural diversity, the next stage would be to further enhance the greenery into a ‘living garden’ where fauna can co-exist within the urban environment, and where biodiversity thrives.

More about our butterflies on the Butterflies of Singapore blog to which Mr Khew contributes.

Time: 11.30am-12.30pm
Venue: Fruit Room, HortPark
Website and contact: http://www.nparks.gov.sg/
Labels: ,

23 May (Sat): Tour of Butterfly Garden & Lifestyle Corner at HortPark

Joined a free guided tour of these new attractions at HortPark – Butterfly Garden & Lifestyle Corner. Limited to 20 people per tour. To register for the guided tours, please call 6471 5601 or email NParks_HortPark@nparks.gov.sg at least 1 hour before the tour.

Time: 9-11am and again from 4-6pm
Venue: Meet at HortPark, Exhibition Gallery
Website: http://www.nparks.gov.sg/
Contact: NParks_HortPark@nparks.gov.sg
Labels: , ,

23 May (Sat): Jungle Heartbeats - Acres Birthday Gala Dinner

Kick off your shoes and join us in an evening of jungle-licious fun, celebrating ACRES ' 8th birthday with celebrity favourite UTT!

Devour an impressive dinner of wild greens and quench your thirst on an endless stream of wine and beer amidst the dense foliage of swinging entertainment.

Stand a chance to sink your hands on some amazing goodie bags, lucky draw prizes and exclusive auction items! ALL FOR THE ANIMALS!
All proceeds from the evening will support the critical and groundbreaking animal protection efforts of ACRES.

If you or your company (or one that you may know) would like to become a sponsor for this event, please email leanora@acres.org.sg for more information.

Time: 6pm to midnight
Venue: Furama Riverfront (map)
Attire: Smart casual
Website and contact: http://www.acres.org.sg/jungleheartbeats/
Labels: ,

23 May (Sat): Numbers and Shapes - a guided tour

Let your child learn about numbers and shapes in this specially organised nature trail! Many opportunities for counting and distinguishing shapes will be given in this tour which focuses on leaves and other plant parts!

Suitable for children in K1 – P2 levels.

Online registration is available on www.sbg.org.sg (under "Education")

Time: 10-11am
Cost: $6 per child and $6 per accompanying parent
Website: http://www.sbg.org.sg/education/workshopchi.asp
Contact: Singapore Botanic Gardens nparks_sbg_edu@nparks.gov.sg or 6471 9961
Labels: , , ,

23 May (Sat): Shapes, Sizes and Textures - a kids' tour

A guided tour for kids at the Jacob Ballas Children's Garden.

Waxy, hairy, smooth or rough. Big, small or tiny. Compound or singular. In this tour, you can learn about the many varied shapes, sizes and textures of leaves and other plant parts of interesting plants in the Children's Garden.

Suitable for children in P3 - P6 levels.

Online registration is available on www.sbg.org.sg (under "Education")

Time: 10-11am
Cost: $6.00 per child & $6.00 per accompanying adult
Website: http://www.sbg.org.sg/education/workshopchi.asp
Contact: Singapore Botanic Gardens nparks_sbg_edu@nparks.gov.sg or 6471 9961
Labels: , ,

23 May (Sat): MIA Night Trail

Discover secrets of Singapore's biodiversity at the Raffles Museum, stroll through picturesque Kent Ridge to Reflections at Bukit Chandu, which marks the defense of the ridge during WWII.

This is a unique opportunity to visit the two museum galleries and a nature park at night with experienced guides from the volunteer group, the Raffles Museum Toddycats!

This event is part of International Museum Day celebrations, and conducted by the Raffles Museum of Biodiversity Research, NUS (RMBR) and National Archives of Singapore (NAS).

Registration is free, but there are only 80 places. You will be informed if you are successful. We are sorry we are unable to take more than 80 due to the limitations of the size of the galleries and the number of volunteer guides.

Please register by filling in this form here: http://imd-reg.rafflesmuseum.net/ by 18 May (Mon).

Time: 5.15pm and 6.15pm
Website and contact: http://imd.rafflesmuseum.net/
Labels: ,

23 May (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
Labels: , , ,

23 May (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
Labels: , , ,

22 May (Fri): Talk on “Crossing the Line - Illegal and Unwanted Aliens in Singapore”

A talk by Prof Peter Ng in celebration of The International Day for Biological Diversity 2009

Singapore is a global city with extremely efficient international land, sea and air connections. However, this connectivity and the globalised nature of its open economy mean that a great variety of plants and animals have entered Singapore, intentionally or accidentally. Some of these have become established in the local environment and become “indigenized”. The number of such species is growing annually and the long-term impacts they will have is a serious concern for ecologists, conservation biologists and managers alike. How do we track them? How do we ensure dangerous species do not enter the island and become established? How do we make sure that native species of great heritage value do not get “compromised”? How can we make sure that these aliens do not cause secondary problems like disease transmission etc.? What about our national responsibilities to international conventions on biodiversity and what are the implications for our neighbours? For that matter, do their activities have an impact on us? And to do all this with minimal impacts on our economy, development and natural heritage. These are indeed challenging times for biodiversity workers and managers in Singapore …

About the speaker:
Professor Peter Ng is Director of the Raffles Museum of Biodiversity Research (RMBR) of the Department of Biological Sciences, Faculty of Science, National University of Singapore. Fondly known as ‘The Crabman’, Prof Ng's areas of research interest include all kinds of crabs, fresh water fishes, marine biodiversity and Southeast Asian conservation biology. Much of the current work focuses on systematic revisions of key groups of crabs and fishes, which invariably involve comparative material from around the world. He has been or is still on the scientific committees of some 30 international organisations. With more than 510 technical papers published over the past 15 years, Prof Ng has also obtained many scientific awards for his research work.

*Light refreshments will be provided after the seminar.

Please RSVP Wei Ling at lim_wei_ling@nparks.gov.sg by Thursday 21st May 3pm

Time: 11am-12pm
Venue: Function Hall, Botany Centre, Singapore Botanic Gardens
Contact: Wei Ling at lim_wei_ling@nparks.gov.sg
Labels: ,

18 May (Mon): Talk on "Healthy Marine Life, Sustainable Seafood and You!"

Most of those who love the sea love seafood! Many who've never seen the sea still connect to it through what they eat and/or via cosmetic products or other ways marine products are used in our daily lives. The need for marine conservation and plight of marine life is gaining greater saliency but what can we do in our everyday lives to ensure the sustainability of the seafood we love to enjoy, and that many need to catch and eat for their livelihoods or sustenance?

WWF – World Wide Fund for Nature, has a regional programme in the 'Coral Triangle' area of South East Asia that is designed to support a significant new Coral Triangle Initiative by governments in the region. This talk will highlight some of the ways this initiative is contributing to marine conservation and how, in particular, market incentives in the form of ecolabels can contribute.

Katherine Short is a Manager supporting WWF's global marine initiatives and is excited to be back in Singapore having grown up here and had early tropical marine experiences in the region. Katherine says "it is both an honor and great fun to be supporting the development of marine conservation in South East Asia and especially in Singapore".

The talk is organised by WWF Singapore, Blue Water Volunteers and National Parks Board.

Please register with Ms Jane Lam at 63230100 (ext 20) or send an email to rsvp@wwf.sg by 12 noon on 18 May.

Time: 7pm
Venue: Function Hall, Botany Centre Level 1, Singapore Botanic Gardens
Website: http://www.bluewatervolunteers.org/events/
Labels: ,

11-17 May: Highlights of the week ahead

For kids and the family
Special events
Walks in our wild places
Registration now open
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 the fascinating hornbill shared by Marcus Ng. This bird is regularly seen at Pulau Ubin. And this week at Ubin, there are special wayang sessions too. So why not visit Pulau Ubin for a taste of both our natural and cultural heritage!

IMG_9564, originally uploaded by budak.

17 May (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
Labels: , , ,

16 May (Sat); Singapore Animal Welfare Symposium 2009

The Symposium is a platform for members of the public, as well as animal-related organisations, to convene and discuss issues affecting domestic and wild animals and those exploited on an industrial scale and come up with effective ways to end animal suffering.

The second Singapore Animal Welfare Symposium, co-organised and hosted by NUS Student’s Animal Welfare Group and ACRES (Animal Concerns Research and Education Society) will take place on Saturday the 16th May 2009 at NUS (National University of Singapore).

All are welcome.

Attendance is free, but please register beforehand at http://www.animalwelfare.sg/registration.html

Time: 8.30am-4.15pm
Venue: National University of Singapore (NUS), Lecture Theatre 27, 21 Lower Kent Ridge Road.
Website and contact: http://www.animalwelfare.sg
Labels: ,

16 May (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: 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
Labels: , , ,

16 May (Sat): 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
Labels: , , ,

16 May (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
Labels: , , ,

16 May (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
Labels: , , ,

16 May (Sat): Rainforest walk at 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
Labels: , ,

16 May (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
Labels: , , , , ,

16 May (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: 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
Labels: , ,

16 May (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: 10-11am
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
Labels: , ,

12 May (Tue): Talk on science communication by Rhett A. Butler of Mongabay.com

"How to communicate conservation science effectively online?" is the theme of this informal Q&A session with Rhett A. Butler, founder of Mongabay.com. Hosted by Janice Lee and N. Sivasothi.
Mongabay.com was founded nearly 10 years ago by Rhett A. Butler, who today is the chief editor and primary writer for the site. With more than one million unique visitors per month, Mongabay.com is one of the world's most popular environmental science and conservation news sites. The news and rainforests sections of the site are widely cited for information on tropical forests, conservation, and wildlife.

In this informal Q&A session, Rhett will share his experiences of managing and updating Mongabay.com as well as answer any questions from the floor on how to communicate conservation science effectively using online tools such as blogs.

More about Mongabay.com

All are welcome.

Thanks to alert on eco-tax by N. Sivasothi.

Time: 5.30pm
Venue: DBS Conference Room, Block S3, Level 5, Department of Biological Sciences, Faculty of Science, National University of Singapore Map
Labels: ,

4-10 May: Highlights of the week ahead

Special events
Walks in our wild places
For nature volunteers
Wild talk
Registration now open
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 strange unidentified snail by James taken on Changi. Kok Sheng blogged about it on his wonderful creations blog.

unidentified shell, originally uploaded by [wj].

10 May (Sun): Celebrate World Migratory Bird Day at Sungei Buloh

Join us for a day of activities at Sungei Buloh Wetland Reserve as we celebrate World Migratory Bird Day. Try your hand at making your own bird mobile and view a special photo exhibition on migratory birds sighted at Sungei Buloh, an important stopover site on the East Asian-Australasia Flyway. You can also attend our talks on the migratory bird flyways around the world. Do celebrate this special day with us!

Make your own bird mobile! Limited to one per person.
Time: 9.30am to 11.30am
Venue: Visitor Centre

Mr David Li, a migratory bird expert, is presenting about Migratory bird flyways around the world.
Time: 1pm and 3pm.
Venue : Threatrette

Do visit and celebrate this special day with us!

Website: http://www.sbwr.org.sg/
Contact: info@sbwr.org.sg or call 6794 1401
Labels: , ,

10 May (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
Labels: , ,

9 May (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
Labels: , , , ,

9 May (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
Labels: , , ,

9 May (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
Labels: , ,

9 May (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.
Labels: , ,

8-13 May: Wayang performances at Pulau Ubin

Pulau Ubin town comes alive during the celebration of "Tua Pek Kong's Birthday".
Celebrations starts at Pulau Ubin from today 8 May (Fri) until 13 May (Wed) with traditional chinese opera performances "wayang" on 8-10 May, and a modern "getai" performance on 13 May, on the last day.

Bumboat rides in and out of Ubin are free most evenings from 6.30pm for this period.

Thanks to Adelle Wang for the heads up!

More about Pulau Ubin and how to get there and wayang at Ubin.
Labels: ,
Subscribe to: Posts (Atom)