23 - 29 Dec: Highlights of the week ahead

For kids and the family

Walks in wild places

Go wild on your own!
This long weekend, why not explore our wild places free-and-easy? Great destinations include Pulau Ubin and a wide range of seashores, mangroves and forest destinations. Check out the many DIY Trail Guides on the NParks website. Lots of info for visitors on wildsingapore with tips on how to prepare for a trip, how to get there and what to see and do.

A tip for a long-weekend trip
Our wild places and parks can get VERY crowded on long weekends. The best way to avoid the crowds is to arrive early in the morning and leave early. Our wildlife is generally more active in the morning too!

28 Dec (Sat): Race Against Time – Science behind a Botanic Garden Tour

Join this free one-hour tour by the Botanic Gardens staff to learn more about the Gardens’ research work.

Come and explore the hub of the Gardens' research facilities at the Singapore Botanic Gardens to learn about botanical research. Find out about the urgency of plant exploration, collection and scientific documentation as species and habitats continue to be lost in the region. Visit the Orchid Micro-propagation and hybridisation display and find out how new hybrids are produced. You can also enter the restricted domain of the Herbarium and Library to learn about the valuable historical treasures they hold for science and posterity.

Registration 15 minutes before the tour starts, and is on a first-come-first-served basis at the Green Pavilion, Botany Centre. Limited to 20 participants.

Time: 10-11am
Meeting point: Green Pavilion, Botany Centre, Singapore Botanic Gardens.
Website: http://www.nparks.gov.sg/
Contact: 64717361 / 64717138 orNParks_SBG_Visitor_Services@nparks.gov.sg.

28 Dec (Sat): Mangrove walk at Sungei Buloh


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

Suitable for young children.

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

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

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

28 Dec (Sat): Free Ecolife Tour for Families

It’s the school holidays again. Want to spend time with your family and learn more about Bishan–Ang Mo Kio Park and biodiversity in and around the river?

Ecolife introduces the park and the biodiversity found in the area through the use of interactive explorational themes and activities. It is to encourage family bonding between parents and child through the process of learning together. This tour is conducted by volunteers.
For children 6 to 14 years old.

There are 20 spaces available for each session, but a minimum of 10 signups is required for the tour to take place. Each signup is for one adult and one child.

For enquires and registration, please email Ms Shanny Tan (shanny_tan@nparks.gov.sg)

Time: 9 to 11am
Website: http://www.nparks.gov.sg/

28 Dec (Sat): Butterfly-watching in HortPark

Butterflies are natural wonders and good indicators of the quality of our environment. Join us for an educational walk as our guides point out to you the numerous species of butterflies that visit HortPark. Seek out the beautiful caterpillars and learn about the lifecycles of these flying jewels.
Photo from the Butterflies of Singapore blog:
Launch of the Butterfly Garden at Hort Park.
At the end of this free tour by the HortPark volunteers, start your journey to becoming a conservationist by bringing your own flower pot and sowing the seeds of either a host or nectar plant that attracts butterflies. A small flower pot will suffice.

This event is part of the Connecting with Nature programme at the Southern Ridges. Pre-registration is required, closing date 1 week before the programme. Programme will commence only with a minimum of 15 participants. Contact 6471-5601 or NParks_HortPark@nparks.gov.sg.

Time: 10am-11am
Venue: HortPark, Butterfly Garden
Website and contact: http://www.nparks.gov.sg

16-22 Dec: Highlights of the week ahead

For kids and the family


Walks in wild places


For Nature Society (Singapore) members only








22 Dec (Sun): Mandarin guided tour at Sungei Buloh

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

Pre-register by calling 67941401, minimum 5 participants to start the tour and maximum 15. The walks are weather permitting and may merge with other activities at the Reserve.

More about the Mandarin guided walks on the Purple Mangrove blog. More about the Sungei Buloh Wetland Reserve on the wildsingapore website and Sungei Buloh Wetland Reserve website.

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

21 Dec (Sat): Birdwatching at Bidadari

for Nature Society (Singapore) members only

The former Bidadari Muslim Cemetery, bounded by Bartley Road on one side and Upper Serangoon Road on another, has proven to be an interesting site for migrants and visitors in recent years. Notable sightings have included the Hooded Pitta, Ruddy Kingfisher, Crow-billed Drongo, various Cuckoos and Flycatchers. Development work may start soon at Bidadari so join the Nature Society in exploring this spot while it is still a peaceful haven for birds.

Time: 7.30-11am
Venue: Meet by the Woodleigh MRT Station, Entrance C, at the junction of Upper Serangoon Road and Upper Aljunied Road.
Website: http://www.nss.org.sg/
Contact: email contact@nss.org.sg or call 6741 2036.

21 Dec (Sat): A walk in an ancient forest, Bukit Timah Nature Reserve

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

This free guided walk will introduce you to the common native flora and fauna found in the primary rainforest.

This guided walk is suitable for families with children 9 and above, and groups of not more than 5. Along a slightly undulating natural path, the trail is not accessible to prams and wheelchairs.

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

Sign up on this online form.

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

21 Dec (Sat): Mangrove walk at Sungei Buloh


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

Suitable for young children.

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

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

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

21 Dec (Sat): Waders' Watch Workshop at Sungei Buloh

The migratory bird season has started and the birds are here at Sungei Buloh! Sungei Buloh is an important bird site for these birds. Every year, thousands of these birds visit Sungei Buloh and other parts of Singapore to find food and shelter during winter in the northern parts of the world. Join in this workshop to know how to identify these amazing birds. Also learn how to Birdwatch and how you can help NParks in studying the migratory patterns of these birds in Singapore.

The workshop comprises a lecture and discussion about the birds followed by a field tour to practice identifying migratory shorebirds. It would be good if you have a pair of binoculars but we can loan you a limited number of binoculars. Attire: Cotton, covered comfortable walking shoes

Please email info@sbwr.org.sg to reserve your place as there are limited slots. Upon receiving your cheque, the Reserve will confirm your registration.

Time: 9am - 12noon
Cost: $5 (Includes admission fees and materials) (Please pay by cheque payable to National Parks Board, Attn: Waders' Watch and snail mail to 301, Neo Tiew Crescent, Singapore 718925)
Website: http://www.sbwr.org.sg/
Contact: info@sbwr.org.sg or call 6794 1401

21 Dec (Sat): Guided walk at the Sensory Trail, Pulau Ubin

Experience Ubin's wonderful nature through your senses along our Sensory Trail.

This is an excellent introduction to the rustic and natural character of the island. You will be able to touch, see or smell fruit trees, spices and herbs for cooking, plants used in traditional medicine and native plants of the mangrove forest.

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

Time: Walks starts 9.30am and lasts for about 1.5 hours. Meet at the Pulau Ubin Main Information Kiosk next to the Ubin Jetty. More on how to get to Pulau Ubin.
Cost: $60 per group of 15 persons, maximum 6 groups
Website and contact: http://www.nparks.gov.sg/

21 Dec (Sat): Free Ecolife Tour for Families

It’s the school holidays again. Want to spend time with your family and learn more about Bishan–Ang Mo Kio Park and biodiversity in and around the river?

Ecolife introduces the park and the biodiversity found in the area through the use of interactive explorational themes and activities. It is to encourage family bonding between parents and child through the process of learning together. This tour is conducted by volunteers.
For children 6 to 14 years old.

There are 20 spaces available for each session, but a minimum of 10 signups is required for the tour to take place. Each signup is for one adult and one child.

For enquires and registration, please email Ms Shanny Tan (shanny_tan@nparks.gov.sg)

Time: 9 to 11am
Website: http://www.nparks.gov.sg/

21 Dec (Sat): National Orchid Garden guided tour

Explore the beauty and diversity of orchids in the National Orchid Garden, Singapore Botanic Gardens. Over 1000 species and 2,000 hybrids are now found in the Gardens' collection, with about 600 species and hybrids on display. Every year, more vibrant and enduring hybrids are added on

Full map at http://www.sbg.org.sg/map_nog.htm
This walk is conducted by the volunteers of the Singapore Botanic Gardens and is held every third Saturday of the month.

A tour in Mandarin is also conducted at 4pm.

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

19 Dec (Thu): Amazing Natural Dyes! - kids' guided tour and workshop

Plants come in a spectrum of colours. Have you ever wondered where all these beautiful colours come from and what are their functions?
This programme will include a guided tour in the Jacob Ballas Children’s Garden and a hands-on art & craft session where participants will get the opportunity to create lovely works using colours from plants. Come and be enchanted by a rainbow of colours in the Gardens!

Suitable for children in P3 - P6 levels

Register online at the NParks website

Time: 10-11am
Cost: $10 per child (includes all materials)
Venue: Jacob Ballas Children’s Garden, Bukit Timah Core of the Singapore Botanic Gardens
Contact: SBG Education Branch at 64719961 or 6465 0196 or through nparks_sbg_edu@nparks.gov.sg
Website: http://www.nparks.gov.sg/

17 Dec (Tue): A Trail Of Colours - guided tour for kids

Have you ever been captivated by the colourful flowers you see in the Jacob Ballas Children’s Garden? Join us for this guided tour that will encourage children to examine selected flowering plants closely to understand the forms and functions of flower parts. Let the mysterious role of flowers in pollination unfold right before the eyes of your children!

Suitable for children in K1 - P6 levels

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

Time: 10-11am
Venue: The Green Pavilion, Tanglin Core of the Singapore Botanic Gardens
Cost: $6 per child and $6 per accompanying adult
Website: http://www.sbg.org.sg

9-15 Dec: Highlights of the week ahead

Specially for kids and the family
Walks in wild places
Make a wild difference
Wild talks
For Nature Society (Singapore) members only

15 Dec (Sun): Horseshoe Crab Rescue and Research

Open to the public

Join us for this monthly mission to rescue and study the Mangrove Horseshoe Crab (HSC). We have also started an ongoing HSC Training and Accreditation Programme for anyone keen to be a qualified HSC&Rer. We recommend that you bring a cap, shoes/booties, sun block, repellent, cutter (for HSC rescue) and camera. Washing facilities available.

Please register with Kerr Pereira kerry@nss.org.sg or at the NSS website, stating your name, if you are a NSS member or not, affiliations (eg school, company), experience if any, and contact details

Time: 2.30-5.30pm, 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.

15 Dec (Sun): Birdwatching at Kranji Marshes with Nature Society (Singapore)

Open to the public but children below 12 are not allowed for safety reasons.

From the meeting point, a hired bus will ferry us to our destination. We begin with a pleasant stroll along a countryside road to the Kranji Marshes where we will continue our walk along the PUB Bund. The marsh is designated by URA as a Nature Park and is currently adopted by NSS under PUB's ABC Waters Programme. Birding highlights here include the Red-wattled Lapwing, Purple Swamphen, Rusty-breasted Cuckoo, White-browed Crake, Changeable Hawk Eagle, Grey-headed Fish Eagle and more.

Register on the NSS website by 5 Dec. A registration form will then be sent to you. Max: 20 persons.

Time: 7.30-11am
Venue: Meet at Kranji Dam Carpark near the Tidal Gates of Kranji Reservoir (off Kranji Way). Reachable by Bus 925 from Kranji MRT Station. If you are driving (from SLE or Kranji MRT Stn), follow Kranji Way heading towards Sg Buloh Wetland Reserve, and you will pass Sg Kadut Industrial Est and Kranji Reservoir before reaching Carpark B.
Website: http://www.nss.org.sg
Contact: email contact@nss.org.sg or call 6741 2036.

14 Dec (Sat): Birdwatching at Singapore Botanic Gardens

for Nature Society (Singapore) members only

We will take an early morning stroll through one of the best botanical gardens in the region. Many species of birds make this park their home and we may have a chance of spottig colourful species like the Long-tailed Parakeet, Crimson Sunbird, Banded Woodpecker, Common Iora, Pink-necked Green Pigeon and Stork-billed Kingfisher. We may also get to see some migrants.

Time: 7.30-11am
Venue: Meet Chung Cheong at the Visitor Centre of Singapore Botanic Gardens.
Website: http://www.nss.org.sg/
Contact: email contact@nss.org.sg or call 6741 2036.

14 Dec (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 a boardwalk, 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.

Tours in Mandarin are available at 10am and 4pm.

Time: 9am, 10am, 11am and 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 orNPARKS_SBG_Visitor_Services@NPARKS.GOV.SG

14 Dec (Sat): A walk with your neighbours - the macaques of Bukit Timah

The long-tailed macaques at Bukit Timah Nature Reserve are commonly seen, but often misunderstood. Few know about the social world of these monkeys. They have family members, power struggles, friends, foes, and a complex social network. In many ways, they mirror our own social life!

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

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

This walk is held every second Saturday of the month.

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

14 Dec (Sat): Mangrove walk at Sungei Buloh

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

Suitable for young children.

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

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

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

14 Dec (Sat): Young Naturalist Passport Camp (Intermediate) at Sungei Buloh

This event is postponed to next year: according to an email from Sungei Buloh Wetland Reserve dated 6 Dec.

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

Limited to 40 children between the age of 11-14 years old. Registration is required.

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

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

14 Dec (Sat): Prawn and Fish Demo 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 andSungei Buloh Wetland Reserve website.

Time: Visitors are advised to reach the Reserve by 9am. Meet the guide at the Information Counter to bring you for an approximate half an hour walk to the prawn and fish demostration site.
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

14 Dec (Sat): Free Pasir Ris Mangrove boardwalk tour with the Naked Hermit Crabs

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

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

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

14 Dec (Sat): Tales of the Singapore Botanic Garden's Heritage Trees

Come for this talk and tour" Tales of the SBG's Heritage Trees: SBG’s Big Trees" by Ali Ibrahim
Time: 10am
Venue: Lawn E, Singapore Botanic Gardens
Website: http://www.sbg.org.sg/

14 Dec (Sat): Free Ecolife Tour for Families

It’s the school holidays again. Want to spend time with your family and learn more about Bishan–Ang Mo Kio Park and biodiversity in and around the river?

Ecolife introduces the park and the biodiversity found in the area through the use of interactive explorational themes and activities. It is to encourage family bonding between parents and child through the process of learning together. This tour is conducted by volunteers.
For children 6 to 14 years old.

There are 20 spaces available for each session, but a minimum of 10 signups is required for the tour to take place. Each signup is for one adult and one child.

For enquires and registration, please email Ms Shanny Tan (shanny_tan@nparks.gov.sg)

Time: 9 to 11am
Website: http://www.nparks.gov.sg/

14 Dec (Sat): Birdwatching at the Southern Ridges

If you are a bird-lover, be sure to join us for this free chirpy experience at Southern Ridges! Comprising a chain of green-open spaces and forested areas spanning the rolling hills of Mount Faber Park, Telok Blangah Hill Park and Kent Ridge Park, the Southern Ridges is home to numerous species of flora and fauna yet to be fully explored. 43 species of birds have been recently surveyed in this area, and some of them are even rare and uncommon. Bring your own binoculars and you may just spot some rare birds here!

This programme is brought to you by the Garden City Fund and ST-Microelectronics.

This event is part of the Connecting with Nature programme at the Southern Ridges. Pre-registration is required, closing date 1 week before the programme. Programme will commence only with a minimum of 15 participants. Contact 6471-5601 or NParks_HortPark@nparks.gov.sg.

Time: 7.30-9.30am
Venue: Meet at Telok Blangah Hill Park, Multi-Purpose Plaza
Website: http://www.nparks.gov.sg/

11 Dec (Wed): Let's Learn About Dragonflies - A guided tour for kids

Did you know that dragonflies are among one of the most ancient winged insects in the world? If we travel back to the Jurassic age, you will realise that they have not changed very much in terms of their body structures! Join us in this guided tour to learn more about this beautiful insect in Jacob Ballas Children’s Garden. You will learn the differences between a dragonfly and damselfly, its life cycle as well as the habits of a dragonfly. During the tour, we will also observe the dragonflies up close with a magnifying glass.

Suitable for children in P1 – P3 levels

Register with the SBG Education Branch at 6471 9961 or 6465 0196 or nparks_sbg_edu@nparks.gov.sg. Register online at www.sbg.org.sg(under "Education").

Time: 9.30-11am
Cost: $9 per child and $9 per accompanying adult
Venue: Jacob Ballas Children’s Garden, Bukit Timah Core of the Singapore Botanic Gardens
Website: http://www.nparks.gov.sg/

2-8 Dec: Highlights of the week ahead

For kids and the family
Wondering what to do with the kids during the school holidays? Check out the highlights of exciting nature activities specially for kids lined up for the December school holidays!


Walks in wild places


Wild talks


For Nature Society (Singapore) members only








8 Dec (Sun): Birdwatching at Rifle Range

for Nature Society (Singapore) members only

This is a good time to look for wintering birds like the Forest Wagtail, Arctic Warbler and maybe, the elusive Ferruginous Flycatcher! We will also be looking out for residential birds like the Asian Fairy Bluebird, Blue-winged Leafbird and Short-tailed Babbler.

Time: 7.30-11am
Venue: Meet Ju Lin at the junction of Rifle Range Road and Dunearn Road. We will carpool to the starting point of this walk.
Website: http://www.nss.org.sg/
Contact: email contact@nss.org.sg or call 6741 2036.

7 Dec (Sat): Tour of the Healing Garden, Botanic Gardens

A free guided tour of the Healing Garden which showcases over 400 varieties of plants used medicinally.
It is laid out thematically relating to component parts of the body such as head, respiratory and reproductive systems. Spread over 2.5 hectares, this garden is designed as a tranquil retreat with medical plants traditionally used in Southeast Asia as the main focus.

This walk is conducted every first Saturday of the month.

Time: 9am and 10am, please register 15 minutes before the tour
Venue: Registration is on a first-come-first-served basis at the Visitor Centre, Singapore Botanic Gardens
Website: http://www.sbg.org.sg/
Contact: Visitor Services (6471 7361)

7 Dec (Sat): Kranji Night Ramble

for Nature Society (Singapore) members only

Led by P Pandi an and Sutari Supari, we will take you through an interesting route to experience an enchanting sunset, look at fireflies and watch Jupiter, Saturn and Mars at their best and learn about star directional uses. We might spot some nocturnal birds and mammals along the way. Bring along a good torch light. Please have an early dinner or bring along packed food and drinks. This 8 km/5 hour ramble is not suitable for children below 12 years old.

Time: 6-11pm
Venue: Meet at 6 pm at the junction of Lim Chu Kang and Neo Tiew Roads.
Website: http://www.nss.org.sg/
Contact: email contact@nss.org.sg or call 6741 2036.

7 Dec (Sat): Mangrove walk at Sungei Buloh

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

Suitable for young children.

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

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

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

7 Dec (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. Even though we are not going on to the shore, there is still much to see and enjoy. There are monitor lizards, fiddler crabs, spiders, rare plants, wild boar, mudskippers and lots of fruit trees. If we are lucky, we might even spot the Oriental Pied Hornbill, White-bellied Sea Eagle and the giant Atlas Moth.
Not more than five persons in a group, pre-register with this online form.

More details on the event and how to get to Chek Jawa, Pulau Ubin on the Adventures with the Naked Hermit Crabs blog.

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

7 Dec (Sat): Sungei Buloh Wetland Reserve 20th Anniversary celebrations

Join the celebrations at Sungei Buloh Wetland Reserve with exhibitions, fun activities with painting and origami, and the launch of Nature Hunt!
click on image for larger view

Admission charges:While the events are free, usual admission charges to Reserve apply. $1 per adult, 50cents per child/student/senior citizen.
Website: http://www.sbwr.org.sg/
Contact: Sungei Buloh Wetland Reserve at info@sbwr.org.sg or call 6794 1401

7 Dec (Sat): Paint along with Pui San at Sungei Buloh


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

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

More in the art in the wetlands blog.

Time: 8.30-11.30am, meet at Information Counter, Visitor Centre.
Admission charges:While the art session is free, usual admission charges to Reserve apply. $1 per adult, 50cents per child/student/senior citizen.
Website: http://www.sbwr.org.sg/
Contact: Sungei Buloh Wetland Reserve at info@sbwr.org.sg or call 6794 1401

7 Dec (Sat): The Singapore Mistletoe Story - demonstration and talk

Join this show and tell on mistletoe specimens by Francis Lim, author of The Singapore Mistletoe Story, from 9am, with a talk at 11.30am.

Time: 9am demonstration, 11.30am to 12.15pm talk
Venue: HortPark, Life Style Corner (behind Visitor Service Centre)
Website: http://www.nparks.gov.sg/

7 Dec (Sat): Free Ecolife Tour for Families

It’s the school holidays again. Want to spend time with your family and learn more about Bishan–Ang Mo Kio Park and biodiversity in and around the river?

Ecolife introduces the park and the biodiversity found in the area through the use of interactive explorational themes and activities. It is to encourage family bonding between parents and child through the process of learning together. This tour is conducted by volunteers.
For children 6 to 14 years old.

There are 20 spaces available for each session, but a minimum of 10 signups is required for the tour to take place. Each signup is for one adult and one child.

For enquires and registration, please email Ms Shanny Tan (shanny_tan@nparks.gov.sg)

Time: 9 to 11am
Website: http://www.nparks.gov.sg/

7 Dec (Sat): Fun walk along the Southern Ridges

Take your family on a leisurely stroll through the Southern Ridges, a soothing sanctuary of greenery that is steeped in history and home to some of nature's greatest gifts of flora and fauna.

Highlights of the free tour include the Henderson Waves, Sembcorp Forest of Giants, Forest Walk and Singing Forest.

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

This event is part of the Connecting with Nature programme at the Southern Ridges. Pre-registration is required, closing date 1 week before the programme. Programme will commence only with a minimum of 15 participants. Contact 6471-5601 or NParks_HortPark@nparks.gov.sg.

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

7 Dec (Sat): MAD for Strange Plants - kids' workshop

Plants can be very strange. Some plants gobble up bugs! Other plants provide food and shelter for bugs that, in turn, take care of them. Some plants scare bugs and people away by giving off an unpleasant smell. But many plants that appear strange are very useful to us. Come learn interesting and fun facts about them and how you can make a difference to protect our environment and the natural homes of these strange plants. This hands-on session with feature live plants.

Suitable for kids 5-12, this programme is conducted with Cicada Tree Eco-Place.

This event is part of the Connecting with Nature programme at the Southern Ridges. Pre-registration is required, closing date 1 week before the programme. Programme will commence only with a minimum of 15 participants. Contact 6471-5601 or NParks_HortPark@nparks.gov.sg.

Time: 10am-12noon
Venue: HortPark, Flower Room
Cost: $25 per child.
Website and contact: http://www.nparks.gov.sg/

7 Dec (Sat): Learning Journey - Heritage Tree and Roads Tour (Northern Singapore)

Heritage Trees are mature trees of special historical, botanical, social, cultural and/or aesthetic value in society. Through this tour, you can get up close and personal with the trees, which are an important part of our roots as a City in a Garden. This session will bring participants to a tour of selected Heritage Trees and Heritage Roads in the Northern part of Singapore, including the Seletar Aerospace Hub.

More about the speaker
Gan Khing enjoys looking at trees and has been working in NParks for the past six years. She is now in the Urban Gardening Section/Heritage Tree Secretariat, sharing with the public her passion for trees.

The Learning Journey is limited to 35 participants. Registration is open at golibrary.com.sg, on a first-come-first-served basis.

Time: 2-4.30pm
Venue: Woodlands Regional Library
Website: http://www.nparks.gov.sg/

7 Dec (Sat): Talk on “Forget Not Our Living Forest” by Joseph Lai

Timeless and priceless beyond imagination, our living forest lives and breathes for us, providing us with a green lung and enriching our lives with a vessel of flora and fauna that is so intricately diverse and rich. Forget Not Our Living Forest seeks to reconnect us with, and re-energise our appreciation for the Central Catchment Nature Reserve, our natural heritage, set in the heart of our island.
Veteran botanist Joseph Lai will unravel the priceless denizens of the forest, carefully and painstakingly assembled from years of appreciative observations. Never before have you seen such an enthralling ensemble of forest denizens and feel the life of a living forest, uniquely near our doorstep in Singapore!

Time: 2.30pm
Venue: Singapore Science Centre, Mendel
Cost: Admission to the talk is free but admission charges to Science Centre apply.
Website and contact: on the Singapore Science Centre website

25 Nov - 1 Dec: Highlights of the week ahead


For kids and the family
Wondering what to do with the kids during the school holidays? Check out the highlights of exciting nature activities specially for kids lined up for the December school holidays!
Kids looking at shorebirds at Sungei Buloh

Walks in wild places

1 Dec (Sun): NSS Kids’ Fun with Forest Wildlife at Venus Drive


Open to the Public

LTA’s proposed Cross Island MRT line will destroy a swathe of forest harbouring a rich variety of wildlife and result in forest fragmentation. Join Uncle Si Guim to understand the issues concerned, and get to see for yourself the many species of plants, birds, vertebrates and insects residing here. The walk will start and end at Venus Drive.

Please register your children (4 to 12 years old) with Gloria Seow at gloria_seow@yahoo.com, stating their names and ages, if they are NSS members or not, if you need us to loan you a pair of binoculars or not, and let us have your mobile number.

A fee of $5 per child (member) or $10 per child (non-member) will be collected on the spot. Parents and caregivers are encouraged to join in at no charge. Details will be emailed to those who sign up.

Time: 8-10am
Venue: Venus Drive
Cost: $5 per child (member) or $10 per child (non-member) will be collected on the spot. Parents and caregivers are encouraged to join in at no charge. Details will be emailed to those who sign up.
Website: http://www.nss.org.sg/
Contact: email contact@nss.org.sg or call 6741 2036.

30 Nov (Sat): Roots, Shoots and Fruits Guided Walk

Learn more about the diversity of plant life, their unique and interesting characteristics, and their importance to people.

To register, please email Alex_Tam@nparks.gov.sg or Eileen_Chia@nparks.gov.sg. A minimum of 10 participants is required per guided walk.

Time: 9-10am (Registration at 8.30am)
Venue: Admiralty Park
Cost: $5 per person/ $80 per venue (for 15 persons)
Website and contact: http://www.nparks.gov.sg/

30 Nov (Sat): "A Forest No Less" in Bukit Batok Nature Park

Learn about the importance of the forest in your daily life!
This one hour tour at Bukit Batok Nature Park highlights the interesting plants and wildlife found in an established secondary forest habitat.

To register, please contact Ms Adelle at adelle_wang@nparks.gov.sg.

Time: 9-10am
Venue: Meeting point 2, Bukit Batok Nature Park
Cost: $5 per person
Website and contact: http://www.nparks.gov.sg/

30 Nov (Sat): Mangrove walk at Sungei Buloh

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

Suitable for young children.

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

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

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

30 Nov (Sat): For kids - Exploring Ubin's Kampong and Nature

Our nature-guided stroll will bring us through a herb, spice and medicinal plant garden, coffee, coconut, durian and other fruit tree plantations, mangrove forest, grassland and woodlands. We will also bypass 'kampong' village houses with their backyard flower and food gardens. Along the way, we may encounter wild pigs, jungle chickens, monitor lizards and a diversity of birds and bugs living among the wayside wildflowers. This walk starts and ends in the main village which has remained almost unchanged since the 1960s. Come experience Ubin's culture before its all gone.
Kampong from the lily pond at Pulau Ubin
Please note: Bring poncho/raincoat/umbrella, hat, fully-filled refillable water bottle, herbal mosquito repellent. Wear long pants, otherwise wear thick repellent. Long-sleeved shirt, socks and covered shoes are recommended. Ubin has shops selling drinks and snacks. There are restaurants open for lunch and dinner.

Pre-registration required, email Celine Low at contact@cicadatree.org.sg giving participants' names, ages and a mobile number.

Time: 8.30-11.00am, meet at 8.30am at basement of Changi Jetty (also known as Changi Point Ferry Terminal) at Lorong Berkukong, 5 mins walk away from Changi Village hawker centre.
Cost: $13 per pax (adult or kid). Excludes the bumboat ride to Pulau Ubin which is $2.50 per person one way. Free for kids age 5 yrs and below accompanying adult participants.
Website: http://cicadatree.blogspot.sg/2013/11/nov-2013-school-hols-walks.html

29 Nov (Fri): A Long Nature Trek for kids into Sungei Buloh Wetland Reserve

This beautiful nature reserve is an important resting and feeding spot for migratory birds from the north. November and December are the best months to see thousands of them checking into the reserve. It is also home to a fantastic diversity of native fauna and flora, from rare otters to monitor lizards, woodpeckers and mudskippers! This is The place to spot an Archerfish. 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 villagers had also constructed fish and prawn ponds in the mangroves which are now used by wetland wildlife such as a family of rare Smooth Otters and two Saltwater Crocodiles. We will also go onto the lovely, long and winding mangrove arboretum boardwalk. The current reserve area may soon be closed to the public, once the connecting new Kranji adventure park is ready. So come see it all before you can't anymore!
Kids looking at shorebirds at Sungei Buloh
Please note: Bring poncho/raincoat/umbrella, hat, fully-filled refillable water bottle, herbal mosquito repellent, snacks. Wear long pants, otherwise wear thick repellent. Long-sleeved shirt, socks and covered shoes are recommended.

For this trek, we will be taking the longer routes to get deep into the heart of the reserve, but it will be on level dirt trails and elevated boardwalks, suitable for use of strollers and wheelchairs. Participants who come must be ready and able to do quite a bit of walking.

Pre-registration required, email Celine Low at contact@cicadatree.org.sg giving participants' names, ages and a mobile number.

Time: 8.30-11.30am, meet at 8.30am at the ticket counter inside the visitor centre of SBWR.
Cost: $13 per pax (adult or kid). Free for kids age 5 yrs and below accompanying adult participants. Does not include entry fee of $1 for adult and 50 cents for kids.
Website: http://cicadatree.blogspot.sg/2013/11/nov-2013-school-hols-walks.html

28 Nov (Thu): "Trees Around Us" Drama Series for kids

"Trees Around Us" Drama Series: Trees around us are of great importance to nature and to our environment. They contribute countless benefits to our daily lives by shading us from the hot sun, shielding us from rain, providing us with clean air. Trees are also homes to many living creatures. Through play and dramatization in this drama series, children get to take on various participating roles in the story, to learn about the beauty of trees. Through each story, children learn to emulate and incorporate good, moral value in their lives.

Jack and The Beanstalk (A Drama Workshop)
Based on the popular fairytale about Jack and the magic beans, children will embark on an adventure with Jack and the amazing beanstalk that grew its way into the giant’s castle! Through participating in dramatization and play, children will find out about the wonders of plants and see their importance in our daily lives.

Suitable for children in K1 - P6 levels

Time: 10-11am
Cost: $10/child
Venue: Jacob Ballas Children’s Garden, Bukit Timah Core of the Singapore Botanic Gardens
Contac: 64719961 / 6465 0196
Website: http://www.nparks.gov.sg/