Because you want to engage in a greater conversation about the environment, and steer it towards a positive outcome for the world.
This month, Hrydhal Damal talks about Eco Cities in the context of Asia.
In the wake of environmental pressures faced by every city, would it be possible for Asian cities to balance its aspirations for economic progress against investing in environmental conservation? Is there a way that they can possibly leap frog into an ecologically sustainable state of being without compromising on economic progress?
Considering that more than half the world's population live in urban areas, cities have the potential to create a quick and quantum impact on the state of affairs. This talk explores the tried and tested technological and planning solutions which can aid cities to plan for an ecologically and economically balanced future.
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
20-26 Jul: Highlights of the week ahead
For kids and the family
Announcement
The Sungei Buloh Mangrove Boardwalk is closed from 13 to 24 Jul for maintenance. During this period, all guided walks will be conducted along part of Route 1. From the Sungei Buloh Wetland Reserve website.
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 marvellous shot of the magnificent estuarine crocodile at Sungei Buloh shared by Brandon Chia. Read more about it on his Biodiversity Singapore blog.
- Pasir Panjang Heritage Trail
- Kusu Island Reefwalk with the Blue Water Volunteers.
- Prawnwatch at Sungei Buloh
- Free Chek Jawa boardwalk tour with the Naked Hermit Crabs
- Chek Jawa walk with Cicada Tree Eco Place
- Kids’ Fun with Colourful Crabs at Chek Jawa
- "Greater Mousedeer Populations on Pulau Ubin"
- “Saving Biodiversity” by Prof Stuart L. Pimm
- Horseshoe Crab Rescue and Research
- Dive Pulau Hantu with the Hantu Bloggers
- Plant Walk at Hindhede Nature Park
- Mangrove walk at Sungei Buloh on Saturday and Sunday.
- Guided walk at Evolution Garden
Announcement
The Sungei Buloh Mangrove Boardwalk is closed from 13 to 24 Jul for maintenance. During this period, all guided walks will be conducted along part of Route 1. From the Sungei Buloh Wetland Reserve website.
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 marvellous shot of the magnificent estuarine crocodile at Sungei Buloh shared by Brandon Chia. Read more about it on his Biodiversity Singapore blog.
26 Jul (Sun): Free Chek Jawa boardwalk tour with the Naked Hermit Crabs
The Naked Hermit Crabs introduce you to Chek Jawa without getting your feet wet. Enjoy the great view and find out more about rare coastal plants, cute fiddler crabs, aggressive mudskippers, sturdy mangrove trees, interesting bugs and more!The free walk will be held every the last Sunday of the month.
Preregistration required.
A message from the Crabs:
Pre-registration is needed. Please write to nakedhermitcrabs@gmail.com and let us know how big your group is.
As always, we request that you come in small family and friend groups. We have only a couple of volunteer guides, so we can cope with a limited number of people for each trip. Thanks for your understanding!
Time: 3 pm meet at the Chek Jawa Info Kiosk
Duration: Two hours
Cost: no charge for now, but donations accepted.
Website: http://nakedhermitcrabs.blogspot.com/
Contact: nakedhermitcrabs@gmail.com
26 Jul (Sun): Chek Jawa walk with Cicada Tree Eco Place
Living Earth Walks goes to the extensive boardwalk at Chek Jawa on Pulau Ubin. Here we shall see a diversity of unique flora and fauna. At low tide, exposed seaweeds used to be collected by locals to feed their pigs. From the mangroves, Attap Palm leaves were harvested for thatching while durable Nibong Palm trunks were used to build kelongs. The shallow sea here was also a rich hunting ground. Many natural resources were depended upon, and used in sustainable ways by the kampong folk who lived at CJ.Trails: Wooden boardwalk. Earth paths, some parts with gentle slopes.
Minimum 20 pax for walk to go ahead.
Advance registration & payment is required. Register with Celine Low contact@cicadatree.org.sg
Time: 9am-noon
Cost: $15 per person (adult or child), minimum 6 years of age, excluding the bumboat ride and mini-bus ride to Chek Jawa. The bumboat ride is $2.50 per person one way. The mini-bus ride is $4 return per person to and from the main village.
Website: http://www.cicadatree.org.sg/
Contact: Celine Low contact@cicadatree.org.sg
26 Jul (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
26 Jul (Sun): The Joys of Dipterocarps Part IV
for Nature Society (Singapore) members only
Enjoy a view from Singapore's culminating point with Shawn Lum. We will see and learn more about our tallest and most distinctive primary forest trees at Bukit Timah Nature Reserve (BTNR). The dipterocarps in hill forests such as BTNR differ somewhat from lowland ones such as the forest we saw at MacRitchie in June. We have one of Singapore's oldest trees, a 360 year old Seraya (Shorea curtisii), growing at Bukit Timah. This time we hope to get twirling helicopter seeds floating down to greet us!
No registration needed
Time: 3pm. Meet at Visitor Centre of Bukit Timah Nature Reserve.
Website: http://www.nss.org.sg/
Contact: email contact@nss.org.sg or call 6741 2036.
Enjoy a view from Singapore's culminating point with Shawn Lum. We will see and learn more about our tallest and most distinctive primary forest trees at Bukit Timah Nature Reserve (BTNR). The dipterocarps in hill forests such as BTNR differ somewhat from lowland ones such as the forest we saw at MacRitchie in June. We have one of Singapore's oldest trees, a 360 year old Seraya (Shorea curtisii), growing at Bukit Timah. This time we hope to get twirling helicopter seeds floating down to greet us!
No registration needed
Time: 3pm. Meet at Visitor Centre of Bukit Timah Nature Reserve.
Website: http://www.nss.org.sg/
Contact: email contact@nss.org.sg or call 6741 2036.
26 Jul (Sun): NSS Kids’ Fun with Colourful Crabs at Chek Jawa
Colourful pincers waving in the air, feeding crabs are everywhere. Plenty of multi-coloured fiddler crabs colonise the mangroves and beaches of Chek Jawa (Pulau Ubin), clothed in electrifying colours if you care to look closely. Help Tan Hang Chong and Timothy Pwee spot these tiny crustaceans and learn fascinating facts like how their burrowing promotes nutrient cycling. We will also get to observe the much talked about marine life of Chek Jawa which will be exposed during the low tides.Please register your kids (4 to 12 years old) at gloria_seow@yahoo.com, stating their names and ages, if you are a NSS member or not, your mobile number, and if you need us to provide binoculars or not (to see the tiny crabs).
A fee of $5 per child (member) or $10 per child (non-member) will be collected on the spot. Parents are encouraged to come along at no charge. Details will be emailed to those who sign up.
Time: 8am, meet at Changi Point Ferry Terminal. You will need to bring $9 per person to cover the return ferry fares to Pulau Ubin ($5) and the return van ride to Chek Jawa ($4), excluding registration fees.
Website: http://www.nss.org.sg/
Contact: email contact@nss.org.sg or call 6741 2036.
26 Jul (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 Jul (Sat): Plant Walk at Hindhede Nature Park
Do you know that we have a Brazil Nut Tree in the park? Do you also know that the wood of Jelutong is used to make pencils? Let our volunteers share with you stories about our green allies in Hindhede Nature Park.
The walk is conducted by the Building and Environment Green Volunteers from Ngee Ann Polytechnic's School of Engineering and the Central Nature Reserve volunteers.
More about the activity on the NParks website.
Time: first walk: 10am, second walk: 10.30am. Meet us 5 minutes earlier in front of the information counter at Bukit Timah Nature Reserve Visitor Centre.
Website: http://www.nparks.gov.sg
Contact: Woon_Ling_Ling@nparks.gov.sg or 6554 5127.
The walk is conducted by the Building and Environment Green Volunteers from Ngee Ann Polytechnic's School of Engineering and the Central Nature Reserve volunteers.
More about the activity on the NParks website.
Time: first walk: 10am, second walk: 10.30am. Meet us 5 minutes earlier in front of the information counter at Bukit Timah Nature Reserve Visitor Centre.
Website: http://www.nparks.gov.sg
Contact: Woon_Ling_Ling@nparks.gov.sg or 6554 5127.
25 Jul - 21 Sep: Hunters and Collectors: The Origins of the Southeast Asian Collection
Thanks to an alert from habitatnews: "The exhibition recreates the old museum, with its cabinets of curiosities, rich ethnographic collection and natural history specimens ranging from rare butterflies, a pair of soaring Christmas Island birds to a leopard poised to pounce!"The Asian Asian Civilisations Museum borrowed specimens from the Raffles Museum of Biodiversity Research for this exhibition and so you can get a feel of what an old natural history museum felt like."
THE LOST WORLD! Enjoy tribal performances, food and activities before going on a discovery tour with your family. Children can listen to folk tales or try out finger-painting and sand art.
29-30 Aug 29-30 from noon-5pm
Free admission from 9am-7pm
Talks offered in relation to this exhibit
Free admission to the talks @ Ngee Ann Auditorium, ACM
"Collective consciousness: Feeling and Fieldwork," by Nigel Barley
Sat 15 Aug 2009: 2pm - 3.30pm
The popular author and former curator of The British Museum will review some of the odd relationships between collectors and their collections, ranging from Stamford Raffles in Java to the British navy in Africa. Drawing from his own experience, he will illustrate some of the ways in which people and objects become fatally entangled.
"An Orientalist's Treasure Trove," by Bonny Tan.
Thu 20 Aug 2009: 7:30-9.00pm
Carl Alexander Gibson-Hill was the last expatriate director of the Raffles/National Museum. A keen naturalist and dedicated scientist, his directorship straddled the British and Malayan era. Reference librarian Bonny Tan of the National Library Board was involved in the publication of a collection listing Gibson-Hill's library.
"Birth of a Museum," by Clement Ong.
Sat 12 Sep 2009: 2.00pm - 3.30pm
The curator of this exhibition explores the birth of the collection tradition in the15th and 16th century and the difference in individual and museum collections from the late 19th to mid-20th centuries.
More details on habitatnews and Asian Civilisations Museum
Media articles on the event
- Feel the thrill of the hunt Relive memories of Singapore's first museum at this exhibition which tells stories of the collectors too, by deepika shetty, Straits Times Life 30 Jul 09;
- Early explorer relics find home in Singapore museum Brenda Goh, Reuters 29 Jul 09;
Opening hours: Mon 1-7pm, Tue-Sun 9am-7pm (to 9pm on Friday)
Venue: Special Exhibitions Gallery, Asian Civilisations Museum, Empress Place how to get there
Charges: $5 (adults) / $2.50 (full-time students / senior citizens). Free admission for children aged 6 and below.
Website and contact: http://www.acm.org.sg
25 Jul (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
25 Jul (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
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
25 Jul (Sat): Birdwatching at the Botanic Gardens
for Nature Society (Singapore) members only
Chung Cheong leads this session. We will take a late afternoon walk (2 to 3 hours) through one of the best botanical gardens in the region. Many species of birds make this place their home and we might spot colourful ones like the Long-tailed Parakeet, Crimson Sunbird, Banded Woodpecker, Common Iora, Pink-necked Green Pigeon and Stork-billed Kingfisher. We might even see some early bird migrants.
Time: 4pm, meet at the Visitor Centre of the Botanic Gardens.
Website: http://www.nss.org.sg/
Contact: email contact@nss.org.sg or call 6741 2036.
Chung Cheong leads this session. We will take a late afternoon walk (2 to 3 hours) through one of the best botanical gardens in the region. Many species of birds make this place their home and we might spot colourful ones like the Long-tailed Parakeet, Crimson Sunbird, Banded Woodpecker, Common Iora, Pink-necked Green Pigeon and Stork-billed Kingfisher. We might even see some early bird migrants.
Time: 4pm, meet at the Visitor Centre of the Botanic Gardens.
Website: http://www.nss.org.sg/
Contact: email contact@nss.org.sg or call 6741 2036.
25 Jul (Sat): Horseshoe Crab Rescue and Research
for Nature Society (Singapore) members only
Join us for this monthly mission to rescue and study the Mangrove Horseshoe Crab (HSC). We have also started an ongoing 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, repellent, cutter (for HSC rescue) and camera. Washing facilities available.
Pre-registeration required. Register with Dr Cartwright-Taylor at cartwrighttaylor@gmail.com, stating your name, if you are a NSS member or not, affiliations (eg. school/company), experience (if any) and contact details.
Time: 8am, 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.
Join us for this monthly mission to rescue and study the Mangrove Horseshoe Crab (HSC). We have also started an ongoing 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, repellent, cutter (for HSC rescue) and camera. Washing facilities available.
Pre-registeration required. Register with Dr Cartwright-Taylor at cartwrighttaylor@gmail.com, stating your name, if you are a NSS member or not, affiliations (eg. school/company), experience (if any) and contact details.
Time: 8am, 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.
25 Jul (Sat): Kusu Island Reefwalk with the Blue Water Volunteers
Our wild and wonderful coral reefs are just too exciting to be enjoyed by divers only! Non-swimmers are most welcome, as we only visit the reefs during low tide, so you only expect to get wet around your ankles at most.Trained and enthusiastic volunteer guides will introduce you to the marine life found on Kusu Island and share reef stories.
Suitable for children.
Pre-registration is required.
Places are limited, sign up ASAP through this link
(http://spreadsheets.google.com/viewform?formkey=cEh1bzNJeW1qMWtFSHZrR3A0ck9ESnc\
6MA..) The closing date for registration is 22 July 2009.
Time: 5.30-9.30am
Venue: Marina South Pier (subject to changes)
Cost: $15/person
Website: http://www.bluewatervolunteers.org
Contact: reefwalk@bluewatervolunteers.org
25 Jul (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
25 Jul (Sat): Pasir Panjang Heritage Trail
Heritage Fest 2009 asks "Who's your neighbour?" So the Raffles Museum of Biodiversity Research (NUS) and Reflections at Bukit Chandu (NAS) have decided to invite you on a 4-hour walk with the Raffles Museum Toddycats. They have plenty of stories to share with you about their neighbours in the Pasir Panjang/Kent Ridge area - about people as well as the plants and animals!
Learn about wildlife at our doorstep at the Raffles Museum of Biodiversity Research in the National Universtiy of Singapore. There are many surprising neighbours of ours that have defied the catastrophe of disappearing forests, shores and reefs.
Our guides will share stories of both hope and loss and encounters with these old neighbours of Kent Ridge as well as Singapore. These include the:
* Siglap Turtle (1883),
* Pasir Panjang Tiger Shark (1967),
* East Coast Black Marlin (1986),
* Bukit Timah's last Leaf Monkey (1987),
* Mandai Road Leopard Cat roadkill (2001)
* East Coast Sea Cow (2001)
* The 4.4 metre King Cobra (2002)
For registration and more details, please see http://heritagefest.rafflesmuseum.net/
Time: 8am and 9am
Meeting Point: Raffles Museum of Biodiversity Research location details.
Learn about wildlife at our doorstep at the Raffles Museum of Biodiversity Research in the National Universtiy of Singapore. There are many surprising neighbours of ours that have defied the catastrophe of disappearing forests, shores and reefs.
Our guides will share stories of both hope and loss and encounters with these old neighbours of Kent Ridge as well as Singapore. These include the:
* Siglap Turtle (1883),
* Pasir Panjang Tiger Shark (1967),
* East Coast Black Marlin (1986),
* Bukit Timah's last Leaf Monkey (1987),
* Mandai Road Leopard Cat roadkill (2001)
* East Coast Sea Cow (2001)
* The 4.4 metre King Cobra (2002)
For registration and more details, please see http://heritagefest.rafflesmuseum.net/
Time: 8am and 9am
Meeting Point: Raffles Museum of Biodiversity Research location details.
24 Jul (Fri): Talk on "Greater Mousedeer Populations on Pulau Ubin"
A talk by Marcus Chua, NUS, Honours Student about his honours thesis "Can Medium-sized Mammals Co-exist with Man on Pulau Ubin?"
The greater mouse deer was recently rediscovered in Pulau Ubin, an island which is one of Singapore's last rural places and a popular recreation area. What led to their rediscovery and comeback? What other mammals can be found on Pulau Ubin? Why are they threatened? Can this little hoofed creature and other medium-sized mammals live alongside man on Pulau Ubin?
All are welcome.
Register on the NParks website (Click on "Mousedeer Talk" tab)
Time: 12-12:45 pm
Venue: Singapore Botanic Gardens, Botany Centre, Function Hall
Website: http://www.nparks.gov.sg/
The greater mouse deer was recently rediscovered in Pulau Ubin, an island which is one of Singapore's last rural places and a popular recreation area. What led to their rediscovery and comeback? What other mammals can be found on Pulau Ubin? Why are they threatened? Can this little hoofed creature and other medium-sized mammals live alongside man on Pulau Ubin?All are welcome.
Register on the NParks website (Click on "Mousedeer Talk" tab)
Time: 12-12:45 pm
Venue: Singapore Botanic Gardens, Botany Centre, Function Hall
Website: http://www.nparks.gov.sg/
20 Jul (Mon): Talk on “Saving Biodiversity” by Prof Stuart L. Pimm
A seminar Professor Stuart L. Pimm, Doris Duke Professor of Conservation Ecology, Nicholas School of the Environment and Earth Sciences, Duke University
About the speaker: Stuart Pimm became a conservation biologist watching species become extinct in Hawai’i in the 1970s. That experience lead to his commitment to study the scientific issues behind the global loss of biological diversity. Pimm has written over 200 scientific papers including three review articles in Nature and Science and four books including “The Balance of Nature?” and “The World According to Pimm: a scientist audits the Earth”.
His research covers the reasons why species become extinct, how fast they do so, the global patterns of habitat loss and species extinction, the role of introduced species in causing extinction and, importantly, the management consequences of this research. His commitment to the interface between science and policy has lead to his testimony in the US government to both House and Senate Committees on the re-authorization of the Endangered Species Act.
More information on his research on species preservation and conservation can be found at thepimmgroup.org
Time: 5-6pm
Venue: Department of Biological Sciences, Conference Room, Blk S3 Level 5, National University of Singapore (Map)
More details: The Biodiversity Crew @ NUS blog
About the speaker: Stuart Pimm became a conservation biologist watching species become extinct in Hawai’i in the 1970s. That experience lead to his commitment to study the scientific issues behind the global loss of biological diversity. Pimm has written over 200 scientific papers including three review articles in Nature and Science and four books including “The Balance of Nature?” and “The World According to Pimm: a scientist audits the Earth”.
His research covers the reasons why species become extinct, how fast they do so, the global patterns of habitat loss and species extinction, the role of introduced species in causing extinction and, importantly, the management consequences of this research. His commitment to the interface between science and policy has lead to his testimony in the US government to both House and Senate Committees on the re-authorization of the Endangered Species Act.
More information on his research on species preservation and conservation can be found at thepimmgroup.org
Time: 5-6pm
Venue: Department of Biological Sciences, Conference Room, Blk S3 Level 5, National University of Singapore (Map)
More details: The Biodiversity Crew @ NUS blog
13-19 Jul: Highlights of the week ahead
For the kids and the family
For Nature Society (Singapore) members only
Announcement
With effect from 10 Jun 09, the gate to Labrador shore will be permanently closed. More details on the Labrador Park: Jul 2005 blog
Registration now open
Photo of the week is this stunning photo by Chay Hoon taken at our very own Pulau Jong. Sadly, she also encountered some serious damage to this wild reef. More about it on her colourful clouds blog.
- Free Chek Jawa Boardwalk Tour with the Naked Hermit Crabs.
- MAD lessons on insects with Cicada Tree Eco Place.
- Rainforest walk with Cicada Tree Eco Place.
- MAD lessons on insects with Cicada Tree Eco Place.
- Fun with Paper at Sungei Buloh.
- Guided walk at the Sensory Trail, Pulau Ubin.
- Mangrove walk at Pasir Ris Park.
- Mangrove walk at Sungei Buloh on Saturday and Sunday.
- Rainforest walk at Bukit Timah Nature Reserve.
- Guided walk at the National Orchid Garden.
For Nature Society (Singapore) members only
Announcement
With effect from 10 Jun 09, the gate to Labrador shore will be permanently closed. More details on the Labrador Park: Jul 2005 blog
Registration now open
- 26 Jul (Sun): Chek Jawa walk with Cicada Tree Eco Place
- 25 Jul (Sat): Pasir Panjang Heritage Trail with the Toddycats!
Photo of the week is this stunning photo by Chay Hoon taken at our very own Pulau Jong. Sadly, she also encountered some serious damage to this wild reef. More about it on her colourful clouds blog.
19 Jul (Sun): Rifle Range to Zhenghua Park Ramble
for Nature Society (Singapore) members only
Led by Ho Wah Loong of The Nature Ramblers, we will stroll through kampong trails where local fruits like the durian, rambai, chempedak, jackfruit and mango grow wild. If we are lucky, we might even pick and taste some of these. The second part will see us ambling through the countryside on the way to Zhenghua Park. Bring along your binoculars and camera for a spot of birdwatching and wildflower photography. Meet at 7.30 am at the carpark of Bukit Timah Hawker Centre. This 8km/4hour ramble ends at Zhenghua HDB estate.
Time: 7:30 am, meet at Carpark of Bukit Timah Hawker Centre.
Website: http://www.nss.org.sg/
Contact: email contact@nss.org.sg or call 6741 2036.
Led by Ho Wah Loong of The Nature Ramblers, we will stroll through kampong trails where local fruits like the durian, rambai, chempedak, jackfruit and mango grow wild. If we are lucky, we might even pick and taste some of these. The second part will see us ambling through the countryside on the way to Zhenghua Park. Bring along your binoculars and camera for a spot of birdwatching and wildflower photography. Meet at 7.30 am at the carpark of Bukit Timah Hawker Centre. This 8km/4hour ramble ends at Zhenghua HDB estate.
Time: 7:30 am, meet at Carpark of Bukit Timah Hawker Centre.
Website: http://www.nss.org.sg/
Contact: email contact@nss.org.sg or call 6741 2036.
19 Jul (Sun): MAD lessons on insects with Cicada Tree Eco Place
In this hands-on lesson, kids will learn about the fascinating insects that live in Singapore’s gardens, parks and forests. Kids also get to colour and make their own insect toy. This MAD lesson will include information about how kids can be part of the solution to protect our environment and wild habitats.For kids aged 5-10 years.
Registration required: email Celine Low contact@cicadatree.org.sg
Time: 2.30-4.30pm
Venue: Jacob Ballas Children’s Garden.
Cost: $15 per child which includes a badge and nature magazine.
Website: http://www.cicadatree.org.sg/
Contact: Celine Low contact@cicadatree.org.sg
19 Jul (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
18 Jul (Sat): Free Chek Jawa boardwalk tour with the Naked Hermit Crabs
The Naked Hermit Crabs introduce you to Chek Jawa without getting your feet wet. Enjoy the great view and find out more about rare coastal plants, cute fiddler crabs, aggressive mudskippers, sturdy mangrove trees, interesting bugs and more!The free walk will be held every the last Sunday of the month.
Preregistration required.
A message from the Crabs:
Pre-registration is needed. Please write to nakedhermitcrabs@gmail.com and let us know how big your group is.
As always, we request that you come in small family and friend groups. We have only a couple of volunteer guides, so we can cope with a limited number of people for each trip. Thanks for your understanding!
Time: 3 pm meet at the Chek Jawa Info Kiosk
Duration: Two hours
Cost: no charge for now, but donations accepted.
Website: http://nakedhermitcrabs.blogspot.com/
Contact: nakedhermitcrabs@gmail.com
18 Jul (Sat): Rainforest walk with Cicada Tree Eco Place
Standing majestically at the heart of Singapore Botanic Gardens is a unique 6.2-hectare patch of primary rain forest. It is home to many native plants and animals - a perfect outdoor classroom where children as young as pre-schoolers can be introduced to the world of forest ecology. Come take a walk with Uncle Joe through the safe and easy boardwalk trails to appreciate the richness and complexity of our natural heritage - the rain forest.Minimum 20 pax for walk to go ahead.
Advance registration & payment is required. Register with Celine Low contact@cicadatree.org.sg
Time: 9am-noon
Cost: $13 per person (adult or child).
Website: http://www.cicadatree.org.sg/
Contact: Celine Low contact@cicadatree.org.sg
18 Jul (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
18 Jul (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
18 Jul (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
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
18 Jul (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
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
18 Jul (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
18 Jul (Sat): Fun with Paper 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.
So, if your answer is YES, do come and join us for a Fun with Paper session! You can bring your kids along too!
This activity is limited to 20 participants.
Time: 9am to 12pm
Venue: Sungei Buloh Wetland Reserve Education Workroom
Trainer: Wong Tuan Wah
Website and contact: http://www.sbwr.org.sg/
17 Jul (Fri): Talk on "Botanical Imaginations in South East Asia"
Dr Lai Chee Kien, keen researcher of history of art, architecture, urbanism and landscapes in Southeast Asia, discusses with the landscapes of Singapore and SEAsia in the 19th and 20th centuries, and how plants and botanical life were important aspects that shaped the political and socio-economic histories of the region.
All are welcome!
Time: 4-5pm
Venue: Function Hall, Botany Centre at the Singapore Botanic Gardens
Location map on the SBG website.
Website: http://www.sbg.org.sg/
Contact: Janice Yau Janice_YAU@nparks.gov.sg
All are welcome!
Time: 4-5pm
Venue: Function Hall, Botany Centre at the Singapore Botanic Gardens
Location map on the SBG website.
Website: http://www.sbg.org.sg/
Contact: Janice Yau Janice_YAU@nparks.gov.sg
15 Jul (Wed): MAD lessons on insects with Cicada Tree Eco Place
In this hands-on lesson, kids will learn about the fascinating insects that live in Singapore’s gardens, parks and forests. Kids also get to colour and make their own insect toy. This MAD lesson will include information about how kids can be part of the solution to protect our environment and wild habitats.For kids aged 5-10 years.
Registration required: email Celine Low contact@cicadatree.org.sg
Dates
15 Jul (Wed): 2.30-4.30pm
19 Jul (Sun): 2.30 to 4.30pm
Venue: Jacob Ballas Children’s Garden.
Cost: $15 per child which includes a badge and nature magazine.
Website: http://www.cicadatree.org.sg/
Contact: Celine Low contact@cicadatree.org.sg
6-12 Jul: Highlights of the week ahead
For kids and the family
Walks in our wild places
Talks
With effect from 10 Jun 09, the gate to Labrador shore will be permanently closed. More details on the Labrador Park: Jul 2005 blog
Registration now open
Photo of the week is the Giant Reef Cuttlefish shared by Debby Ng. This and other amazing creatures were seen on our very own wild reefs at Pulau Hantu. Read more about it on the Hantu Blog.
- Sungei Buloh walk with Cicada Tree Eco Place
- Sara goes carbon footprinting at the Botanic Gardens
Walks in our wild places
- Nature walk at Admiralty Nature Area
- Forest walk at the Botanic Gardens Rainforest Trail.
- Nature walk at MacRitchie Prunus Trail.
- Getting to Know MacRitchie Walk.
- Mangrove walk at Sungei Buloh on Saturday and Sunday.
Talks
- "The Wonders of Singapore's Mangroves Insect Fauna" by Dr Patrick Grootaert
With effect from 10 Jun 09, the gate to Labrador shore will be permanently closed. More details on the Labrador Park: Jul 2005 blog
Registration now open
- 26 Jul (Sun): Chek Jawa walk with Cicada Tree Eco Place
- 25 Jul (Sat): Pasir Panjang Heritage Trail with the Toddycats!
- 18 Jul (Sat): Rainforest walk with Cicada Tree Eco Place
- 15 Jul (Wed) and 19 Jul (Sun): MAD lessons on insects with Cicada Tree Eco Place
Photo of the week is the Giant Reef Cuttlefish shared by Debby Ng. This and other amazing creatures were seen on our very own wild reefs at Pulau Hantu. Read more about it on the Hantu Blog.
12 Jul (Sun): Sungei Buloh walk with Cicada Tree Eco Place
This wetland reserve is now a resting and feeding spot for migratory birds. But it also hosts a fantastic diversity of native fauna and flora. In the past, the area had several kampongs (villages) with the locals tending to vegetable and fruit tree plots. Many of these fruit trees and traditional herbs still survive and may be encountered along the trails. The people also constructed fish and prawn ponds in the mangroves. These are now used by the birds.Trails: Level dirt paths and boardwalks suitable for children, the elderly, disabled or participants using wheelchairs.
Minimum 20 pax for walk to go ahead.
Advance registration & payment is required. Register with Celine Low contact@cicadatree.org.sg
Time: 9am-noon
Cost: $13 per person (adult or child), excluding park entrance fees. Park entrance fee is $1.00 for adults, 50 cents for children.
Website: http://www.cicadatree.org.sg/
Contact: Celine Low contact@cicadatree.org.sg
12 Jul (Sun): FREE Drop-off and Collection of old IT gadgets
Do you have old or spoilt computers/desktops/laptops or other IT gadgets lying around at home? Have you just upgraded and wondering what to do with your old gadgets?
Bring them all down to the Really Really Free Market (RRFM)!
We are providing the following FREE services at the RRFM:
1) Free data wipes and data backup for your old computers
2) Responsible reuse, refurbishment or recycling of your old IT equipment
3) Free valuation and Cash-back for laptops with remaining resale value. Yes, money back!
If you have loose computer parts or other accessories, bring them down as well coz we'll take them!
If there is too much to bring down and you don't drive, worry not! We provide FREE collection from your home and office. Come down to RRFM to speak with us, find out what we do and make an appointment.
If you can't wait till 12 July, contact us today! Call us at 8298 7896 or email recycle@ccenex.sg
More details on facebook
Find out more about the Really Really Free Market Singapore at http://post-museum.org/rrfms/
Even if you don't have old gadgets to recycle, who knows what wonderful free things you'll find at the RRFMS!
Host: C.CENEX IT Recycling Solutions
Time: 4-9pm
Venue: Post-Museum, 107-109 Rowell Rd
Contact: recycle@ccenex.sg
Bring them all down to the Really Really Free Market (RRFM)!
We are providing the following FREE services at the RRFM:
1) Free data wipes and data backup for your old computers
2) Responsible reuse, refurbishment or recycling of your old IT equipment
3) Free valuation and Cash-back for laptops with remaining resale value. Yes, money back!
If you have loose computer parts or other accessories, bring them down as well coz we'll take them!
If there is too much to bring down and you don't drive, worry not! We provide FREE collection from your home and office. Come down to RRFM to speak with us, find out what we do and make an appointment.
If you can't wait till 12 July, contact us today! Call us at 8298 7896 or email recycle@ccenex.sg
More details on facebook
Find out more about the Really Really Free Market Singapore at http://post-museum.org/rrfms/
Even if you don't have old gadgets to recycle, who knows what wonderful free things you'll find at the RRFMS!
Host: C.CENEX IT Recycling Solutions
Time: 4-9pm
Venue: Post-Museum, 107-109 Rowell Rd
Contact: recycle@ccenex.sg
12 Jul (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
11 Jul (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
11 Jul (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
11 Jul (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
11 Jul (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
11 Jul (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.
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.
11 Jul (Sat): Nature walk at MacRitchie Prunus Trail
Botanical wonders of MacRitchie. Free guided nature walk along boardwalks hugging the MacRitchie Reservoir. Learn about this mature secondary, spot forest and aquatic wildlife, enjoy panaromic views of waters surrounded by luxuriant forest.Suitable for young children.
More about the MacRitchie Prunus Trail on the wildsingapore website and NParks website. This walk is conducted by the volunteer guides of NParks Central Nature Reserve and is held every second Saturday of the month.
Time: 9.30am. Meet at entrance of the trail, about 50m after the canoe kiosk on the eastern side of MacRitchie Reservoir Park.
Tour duration: About one hour.
Website: http://www.nparks.gov.sg/
Contact: Woon_Ling_Ling@nparks.gov.sg or call 6554 5127.
10 Jul (Fri): Talk on "The Wonders of Singapore's Mangroves Insect Fauna"
In this talk, Dr Patrick Grootaert shares with us some of his findings from the Singapore Mangrove Insect Project (SMIP) and also the new fly species found.The Singapore Mangrove Insect Project (SMIP) is a collaboration between NParks and NUS. Eleven mangrove sites in Singapore were studied during a one-month sampling campaign in May 2009. In the preliminary analysis, long-legged flies and dance flies were used as indicator species to assess the quality of each site. From this analysis, the original mangrove patch at Pulau Semakau showed the highest diversity and quality of species. Other sites that have good diversity are Chek Jawa Wetlands, Sungei Buloh Wetland Reserve, Sungei Cina and Belayar Creek. Changi Creek and Lim Chu Kang had the poorest diversity.
The insect fauna of Singapore is surprisingly rich and one of the best known in the world. During the one-month sampling, at least 10 new fly species for science were found. In this Public Seminar, Dr Grootaert will
Dr. Patrick Grootaert was born in Belgium in 1952. He graduated at Ghent University in 1973 and obtained a PhD on ultrastructure of nematodes in 1978. During his one-year sabbatical stay here in Singapore he found 150 new species for science showing that even in a small densely populated country like Singapore, treasures can be found.
All are welcome. Please RSVP LIM_Wei_Ling@nparks.gov.sg by 9 Jul (Thu) 5pm.
Light Refreshments will be provided after the seminar.
Time: 11am - 12pm
Venue: Function Hall, Botany Centre, Singapore Botanic Gardens
Contact: LIM_Wei_Ling@nparks.gov.sg
29 Jun - 5 Jul: Highlights of the week ahead
For kids
Registration now open
Photo of the Week There was a flurry of low tide shore trips last week and among the many interesting encounters is this colourful flatworm shared by James on his flickr and his Singapore Nature blog. It was taken on Beting Bemban Besar, a submerged reef off Pulau Semakau.
- MAD lessons on insects with Cicada Tree Eco Place
- Our Kitchen Garden tour at Pasir Ris Park
- "The Ecology of Tropical East Asia" Book Launch, with a presentation followed by a walk.
- Mangrove walk at Sungei Buloh on Saturday and Sunday.
- Nature walk at Lower Peirce Boardwalk.
- Our Kitchen Garden tour at Pasir Ris Park.
- Edible and medicinal plants tour at the Botanic Gardens
Registration now open
- 26 Jul (Sun): Chek Jawa walk with Cicada Tree Eco Place
- 25 Jul (Sat): Pasir Panjang Heritage Trail with the Toddycats!
- 18 Jul (Sat): Rainforest walk with Cicada Tree Eco Place
- 12 Jul (Sun): Sungei Buloh walk with Cicada Tree Eco Place
- until 12 Jul: Sungei Buloh's first photo competition.
- 15 Jul (Wed) and 19 Jul (Sun): MAD lessons on insects with Cicada Tree Eco Place
Photo of the Week There was a flurry of low tide shore trips last week and among the many interesting encounters is this colourful flatworm shared by James on his flickr and his Singapore Nature blog. It was taken on Beting Bemban Besar, a submerged reef off Pulau Semakau.
5 Jul (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
4 Jul (Sat): "The Ecology of Tropical East Asia" Book Launch
The first book to describe the terrestrial ecology of the entire East Asian tropics and subtropics, from southern China to western Indonesia. It deals with plants, animals, and the ecosystems they inhabit, as well as the diverse threats to their survival and the options for conservation.This book provides the background knowledge of the region’s ecology needed by both specialists and non-specialists to put their own work into a broader context.
Nature’s Niche, Richard Corlett & Oxford Fajar Sdn. Bhd invites all to the launch of the book with a presentation by Dr. Richard Corlett followed by a nature walk at Mount Imbiah.
More about the book on the Nature's Niche website and The Biodiversity Crew@NUS blog.
Time: 2-5pm
Venue: Sentosa Nature Shop @ Sentosa Nature Discovery
(at Imbiah behind Butterfly Park)
21 Siloso Road #02-01
Singapore 098968
Website and contact: http://www.naturesniche.com/
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