wild happenings in singapore: March 2014

24-30 Mar: Highlights of the week ahead

For kids and the family

Free Ecolife Tour for Families

Walks in wild places

Wild workshop

28 Mar (Fri): Workshop on "Trash Talking: Marine Trash and Us"

Wild talk

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

Wild volunteering opportunity

Horseshoe Crab Rescue & Research

For Nature Society (Singapore) only

Birdwatching at Bidadari

30 Mar (Sun): Paint along with Pui San at Sungei Buloh

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

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

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

More in the art in the wetlands blog.

Time: 8.30-11.30am, meet at Information Counter, Visitor Centre.
Website: http://www.sbwr.org.sg/
Contact: Sungei Buloh Wetland Reserve at info@sbwr.org.sg or call 6794 1401

30 Mar (Sun): Mandarin guided tour at Sungei Buloh

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

Suitable for young children.

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

More about the 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.
Website: http://www.sbwr.org.sg/
Contact: info@sbwr.org.sg or call 6794 1401

30 Mar (Sun): 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 Albert in exploring this spot while it is still a peaceful haven for birds.

Time: 7.30 - 11.30am, Meet at 7.30am 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.

29 Mar (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. The talk Forget Not Our Living Forest seeks to reconnect us with, and re-energize our appreciation for the Central Catchment Nature Reserve – our natural heritage, set in the heart of our island. With a slideshow to visually complement the talk, listen to Joseph Lai speak as he unveils an enthralling ensemble of forest denizens, and feel the life of a living forest not far from our doorstep.

In support of Earth Hour that takes place on Saturday, 29th March 2014, Books Kinokuniya is hosting a talk – Forget Not Our Living Forest – by veteran botanist Joseph Lai on the same day at 2.00 p.m., where he will share with you more about Singapore’s rain forest.

Check out Joseph Lai’s blog and the ‘Love Our MacRitchie Forest video

Time: 2-3pm
Venue: Kinokuniya Singapore Main Store, Crossroads
Website and contact: http://www.kinokuniya.com.sg/events/rainforest/index.html

29 Mar (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 .

29 Mar (Sat): Art in Nature at Bukit Timah Nature Reserve

For the serious artist and those with relevant art background, this Wildlife Art workshop is for you. Started in June 2010 and resumed early 2013, get ready to busy yourself with sketchpads and paint brushes.

Volunteer leader - Jerome Pang will be sharing and guiding volunteers and participants who are passionate in both art and nature conservation to develop their art skills while raising awareness on conservation and biodiversity. Themes include, local wildlife, animals, birds, insects and plants.

With the launch of Snake Exhibition at Wallace Education Centre (Launch End June) located at Dairy Farm Nature Park, participants will work on wildlife art, primarily on local snakes species and will get to have their artwork featured at exhibition.

Register online

- Registrants will have to bring their own art materials (Recommended by trainer, Jerome Pang)
- Only open for art students or anyone with drawing/sketching/painting skills
- 2 Subjects per workshop

Time: 9am - 12noon
Venue: Bukit Timah Nature Reserve Visitor Centre, Seminar Room (Level 2)
Contact: Ms Nur Fadzleen Niza fadzleen_arrifin@nparks.gov.sg / 98419965
Website: http://www.nparks.gov.sg/

29 Mar (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/

29 Mar (Sat): Fascinating Forest at Labrador

Come and experience the wonders of the fascinating forest of Labrador Nature Reserve. This dense forest contains an indigenous ecosystem that houses many varieties of flora and fauna. This walk also takes you to Singapore's only rocky shore and introduces you to the unique coastal cliff vegetation surrounding it. In addition, this walk touches on the rich historical background of Labrador Park and highlights the World War II monuments that can be found in the Park.

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: 9-10am
Venue: Bukit Chermin Boardwalk, beside Labrador MRT station.
Cost: $5 per person
Website and contact: http://www.nparks.gov.sg

29 Mar (Sat): Mangrove walk at Sungei Buloh

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

Suitable for young children.

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

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

Time: 9.30am 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.
Website: http://www.sbwr.org.sg/
Contact: info@sbwr.org.sg or call 6794 1401

29 Mar (Sat): Horseshoe Crab Rescue & Research

Open to the Public - Registration Needed

Join us for this monthly mission to rescue and study the Mangrove Horseshoe Crab (HSC). Bring along a cap, shoes/booties, sunblock, repellent, cutter for HSC rescue and a camera. Washing facilities available.

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

Details will be emailed upon registration.

Time: 3-6pm, 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.

28 Mar (Fri): Workshop on "Trash Talking: Marine Trash and Us"

What is this workshop about? If plastic trash were out of sight, out of mind, are they really completely out of our lives? When disposed, many of our plastic trash would land in our oceans and harm marine animals in various ways such as entanglement and plastic ingestion. It has also been found that humans are not spared from the insidious effects of this plastic plague. What can we do or are doing to salvage this situation?

This workshop is useful for all who are interested to learn more as well as passionate members of the community who would like to share their feedback, brainstorm solutions and network with like-minded volunteers to make a difference.

Teo Kah Ming
Wanting to do her part for nature, Kah Ming joined Toddycats! under Raffles Museum of Biodiversity Research in 2008. Since then, she volunteers in various public outreach events and is also under the International Coastal Cleanup Singapore (ICCS) team where she is the zone captain for Pulau Ubin. Although previously trained in engineering, Kah Ming is now venturing into studying a Masters in Zoological Sciences in National Institute of Education.

Please register by 26 March 2014 at http://tinyurl.com/leafmonkey2014

Registration is strongly advised as it allows us to better customize the workshop to suit YOUR needs! If you have difficulty submitting your registration on this website, please email us at

Time: 7-10pm
Venue: Civil Service College, 31 North Buona Vista Road Singapore 275983 [Map]
Website: http://leafmonkeyworkshop.blogspot.com/
Contact: leafmonkey@gmail.com

17-23 Mar: 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 March school holidays!

And MORE fun school holiday activities to discover and enjoy Singapore's biodiversity!

Walks in wild places

for Nature Society (Singapore) members only

Special events

22 Mar (Sat): Heritage Trees of Singapore walking tour

Do you know that there are special trees in Singapore which have “Heritage Tree” status?

Join us on this walking tour to discover five Heritage Trees in Duxton Plain Park and Spottiswoode Park. Along the way, we will also learn to identify the trees that provide us shade and beautify our urban landscape

Participants will need to wear comfortable walking shoes, an umbrella and sufficient snacks and water.

Pre-registration is required (Registration button is on the bottom left of this NParks page). The maximum capacity is 30 participants. Registrations received after the maximum capacity is reached will be put on the waiting list.

Date : 22 Mar 2014 9:00 am - 11:30 am
Venue : Meet at Duxton Plain Park, near bus stop (along Neil Road, before Pinnacle@Duxton)
Website: http://www.nparks.gov.sg/
Contact: nparks_urban_gardening@nparks.gov.sg

22 Mar (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.
Website: http://www.sbwr.org.sg/
Contact: info@sbwr.org.sg or call 6794 1401

22 Mar (Sat): "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.

The Secret Heart of the Tree - An African Tale (A Drama Workshop) Based on a light-hearted African tale that carries a powerful message of respect for nature, respect for others and respect for one's word and honour, this drama workshop teaches children important values and invites them to discover the wonders of plants through dramatization, interaction and play.

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/

22 Mar (Sat): Free Ecolife Tour for Families

22 Mar (Sat): We Love the Nightlife - a workshop for kids

Who loves the night life? Bats, snakes, frogs, toads, owls and night jars! Join us to find out more - we will start with a talk showcasing native nocturnal wildlife, followed by an art and craft session where kids can make and keep paper souvenirs of our nocturnal animals. The event will end with a night walk at Canopy Walk, Kent Ridge Park where we will try and spot nocturnal wildlife.

Suitable for kids 5-10, 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: 6-8am
Venue: HortPark, Greenhouse workshop area
Cost: $25 per child.
Website and contact: http://www.nparks.gov.sg/

22 Mar (Sat): Nature Keeper Programme

Designed to stimulate the interest of the young and inculcate in them an appreciation of our forests, the programme will be carried out at Dairy Farm Nature Park. The programme aims to nurture young volunteers in protecting our natural heritage in the longer term.

Children will learn more about the fun facts of the forests in Singapore and have the opportunity to interact with nature. As part of the programme, they will also be introduced to “The Green Factory” and understand how forest products are incorporated into our daily life. There will also be a guided walk at Wallace Trail and an art-and-craft session.

Suitable for children 7 - 10 years old.

Only 20 spaces available. Registration is on a first-come, first-served basis and is required at least 3 weeks in advance. For enquiry or registration on Nature Keeper Programme, please email ruth_foo@nparks.gov.sg or jeanne_tan@nparks.gov.sg.

Time: 9am - 12noon
Venue: Dairy Farm Nature Park

22 Mar (Sat): Mangrove walk at Sungei Buloh

22 Mar (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

22 Mar (Sat): Butterfly Walk & Biodiversity Exhibition at Seletar Country Club

Open to the Public

In recent years, Seletar Country Club has been championing butterfly habitats, with 55 species sighted so far within the club. Join veteran butterfly watcher Simon Chan in touring its wonderful gardens, full of feeding, mating and breeding butterflies. There will also be a biodiversity exhibition on site.

Time: Meet at the club’s entrance at 9.30 am
Venue: Seletar Country Club
Website: http://www.nss.org.sg/
Contact: email contact@nss.org.sg or call 6741 2036.

22 Mar (Sat): Buangkok to Jalan Kayu Ramble

for Nature Society (Singapore) members only

This 7-km ramble will take us through the undulating forest and countryside around Buangkok on to Jalan Kayu. We will get to explore the last kampong (village) on mainland Singapore. Then, we traverse the forested area around old Woodbridge Hospital. Expect to see interesting birdlife and plant life. Please wear proper walking shoes and long pants. Not suitable for children below 12 years old.

Time: Meet 7.45am at Shell petrol station between Gerald Drive and Yio Chu Kang Road
Website: http://www.nss.org.sg/
Contact: email contact@nss.org.sg or call 6741 2036.

21 Mar (Fri): "Trees for Life" Photography Trail at Fort Canning Park

In March, NParks will open your eyes to the trees around us through three walking trails at Pearl’s Hill City Park, Hyderabad Road and Fort Canning Park. Our guides will share about trees such as the Leopard Tree, Bodhi Tree and Broad-leafed Mahogany, and even point out the types of trees that would make good photography subjects. At the end of this session, you will submit your favourite photographs as entries in the NParks “Trees For Life” Photography Competition.

This trail is open only to students aged 13 years old and above. Participants should wear comfortable walking shoes and remember to bring along a compact or DSLR camera, sufficient water and an umbrella.

Max 20 persons. Registrations received after the maximum capacity is reached will be put on the waiting list. We will send an email to confirm your registration within three working days.

For enquiries, please call 6471 7518 or email nparks_urban_gardening@nparks.gov.sg.

Date: 9 - 10.30am
Venue:Public carpark beside Pearl Bank Apartment
Website: http://www.nparks.gov.sg/

21 Mar (Fri): 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/

19 Mar (Wed): "Trees for Life" Photography Trail at Hyderabad Road (near Hort Park)

17 Mar (Mon): "Trees for Life" Photography Trail (Pearl's Hill City Park)

17 Mar (Mon): The Great Palm Escape - a guided tour for kids

Be amazed by one of the finest palm collections in the world! Come on this guided tour and be introduced to some of the more interesting and unusual palms of the Gardens. Discover their interesting features and learn their names and uses too!

Suitable for children in K1 – P6 levels

For enquiry and registration, please contact the SBG Education Branch at 6471 9961 & 6465 0196 or through email: nparks_sbg_edu@nparks.gov.sg. Online registration is available on www.sbg.org.sg (under "Education")

Time: 10-11am
Cost: $6.00 per child and $6.00 per accompanying adult
Venue: Visitor Centre, Central Core of the Singapore Botanic Gardens

10-16 Mar: 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 March school holidays!

And MORE fun school holiday activities to discover and enjoy Singapore's biodiversity!

Walks in wild places

For Nature Society (Singapore) members only

Birdwatching at Lorong Halus

16 Mar (Sun): Birdwatching at Kranji Marshes

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

Open to the Public - Registration Needed

To celebrate 2014 World Water Day in collaboration with PUB, NSS Bird Group is conducting a birdwatching walk at Kranji Marsh and the nearby Kranji Reservoir Bund for the public.

We begin with a pleasant stroll along a countryside road to the Kranji Marsh 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 3 Mar 2014. Total group size is limited to 60 for the walk and individual or group registrations will be accepted on a first-come-first-serve basis. A registration form will be emailed to you and registration is subject to confirmation.

Time: 8 - 11.30am
Venue: Meet at 8am in front of D'Kranji Resort at Neo Tiew Lane 2.
Website: http://www.nss.org.sg
Contact: email contact@nss.org.sg or call 6741 2036.

15 Mar (Sat): Birdwatching at Lorong Halus

Open to the Public - Registration Needed

To celebrate 2014 World Water Day in collaboration with PUB, NSS Bird Group is conducting a birdwatching walk at Lorong Halus Wetland for the public.

This walk will start at the Punggol Promenade. For years, Little Grebes have made their home at Lorong Halus, an old rubbish dump site. Grassland birds like Yellow-bellied Prinias, Munias, Baya Weavers, Long-tailed Shrikes and more thrive here. In 2011, PUB completed works to create 'Lorong Halus Wetland' to help purify water that flows through the dump site. Jimmy Lee and other guides from the Society will introduce these birds and more during the walk.

Open to the public but registration required on the NSS website before 3 Mar 2014. Total group size is limited to 60 for the walk and individual or group registrations will be accepted on a first-come-first-serve basis. Registration is subject to confirmation.

Time: 7.30 - 11.30am
Venue: Meet at 7.30am beside the Popeye Restaurant at Tebing Lane off Punggol East. You can take the MRT to Punggol station and transfer to the LRT. Alight at Riviera LRT station and walk towards the meeting point.
Website: http://www.nss.org.sg/
Contact: email contact@nss.org.sg or call 6741 2036.

15 Mar (Sat): Love MacRitchie Walk with Cicada Tree Eco Place

In celebration of Singapore World Water Day on 15 March 2014, Cicada tree Eco-Place will be conducting a free guided nature walk to the Central Catchment Nature Reserve at Venus Drive (MacRitchie).

Photo by Russel Low

The MacRitchie Forest Trail at Venus Drive meanders along the banks of a crystal-clear forest stream that is full of freshwater life. Here live dragons and damsels, freshwater crabs and prawns, the Puff-faced Watersnake, Pygmy Halfbeak and Saddle Barb. Look out, too, for the Green Crested Lizard, Red-bellied Squirrel, Long-tailed Macaque, Blue-rumped Parrot and Colugo. Walk in the cool shade of old trees. Feel the peace that only a rainforest can give. The trail here is a dirt path which is relatively level and suitable for children, the elderly and the physically-challenged. Be prepared for some mud.

What to wear and bring: Wear lightweight cotton long pants, cotton shirt or tee-shirt, closed walking shoes with socks. Bring water in your refillable water bottle. Herbal insect repellent will keep the mozzies away. A cap or hat to protect you from the sun, and a light poncho or umbrella in case of rain.

Register online here http://tinyurl.com/lovemacritchiewalk-ctep-wwd

Time: 9.30am-12noon
Venue: Venus Drive Carpark (map: http://tinyurl.com/lovemacritchiewalk-venus-map)
Website: http://www.cicadatree.org.sg/

15 Mar (Sat): Young Naturalists Passport Camp at Sungei Buloh

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

Limited to 40 children between the age of 6-10 years old. Registration is required.

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

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

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

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

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

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/

15 Mar (Sat): Adventure with Plants - Sara at the Evolution Garden

In this guided tour for kids, join a giant prehistoric dinosaur, Sara, who lost her friends in the Evolution Garden. Travel back through time with Sara and help her search for her squirrel friends. By going through the thematic trail, you will also learn about some ancient plants which emerged on earth millions of years ago!

Suitable for children in K1 – P6 levels.

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

Time: 10-11am
Cost: $8.50 per child (includes $2.50 "Adventure with Plants, Sara at the Evolution Garden" workbook) and $6 per accompanying adult.
Venue: Visitor Centre, Central Core of the Singapore Botanic Gardens
Website: http://www.sbg.org.sg/

15 Mar (Sat): Free Ecolife Tour for Families

15 Mar (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/

15 Mar (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

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

This FREE art workshop helps children to delve deep into their hearts to express nature in various themed art activities like drawing, fingerprinting, origami, puppet making. The children will also learn about our natural heritage.

Suitable for children aged 5 to 8 years (with parental supervision).

Limited spaces available. Register at least 4 days in advance by emailing ruth_foo@nparks.gov.sg or jeanne_tan@nparks.gov.sg.

Time: To be advised. The workshop will be cancelled in the event of bad weather.
Venue: Bukit Batok Nature Park
Website and contact: http://www.nparks.gov.sg/

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

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

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/

15 Mar (Sat): Mangrove walk at Sungei Buloh

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

Suitable for young children.

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

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

Time: 9.30am 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

3-9 Mar: Highlights of the week ahead

For kids and the family

Walks in wild places

Wild talks

7 Mar (Fri): Talk on "Stalking Singapore's Masked Fruit Bandits"

For Nature Society (Singapore) members only

9 Mar (Sun): Birdwatching at Greenleaf Forest

9 Mar (Sun): Birdwatching at Greenleaf Forest

for Nature Society (Singapore) members only

Greenleaf Forest is a lovely forest that you can catch a glimpse of in passing along Sixth Avenue. It is very little explored for its wildlife. A casual survey one morning yielded about 30 plus species of birdlife - including endangered species like the Straw-headed Bulbul, Oriental Magpie Robin and Changeable Hawk-eagle. There are definitely more bird species to be seen and recorded here, especially during the migration season. Ideal for birdwatching beginners and for those who would like to enjoy the scenic views around this quiet corner of suburbia.

Time: 7.30a - 11.30am, meet at the 1st junction of Ming Teck Park (Road) with Sixth Avenue if coming from Dunearn Road; or if coming from Holland Road, it's the 3rd Ming Teck Park (Road) junction.
Website: http://www.nss.org.sg/
Contact: email contact@nss.org.sg or call 6741 2036.

8 Mar (Sat): Trees of The Fort

Did you know that a Kapok tree can grow up to 70 metres high? Let our nature-loving guides from The Green Volunteers bring you on a journey to find out more about our heritage trees and other beautiful trees like the towering Kapok, flaky Gelam and gnarled Madras Thorn!

Visit www.thegreenvolunteers.blogspot.com to find out more about our guides!

The walk in free. Register online here.

For enquiries and registration: lim_shen_jean@nparks.gov.sg or call 6636 2393.

Time: 4-5.30 pm
Venue: Meet at Courtyard, opposite NParks Visitor Centre, Fort Canning Centre
Website: http://www.nparks.gov.sg/ and http://thegreenvolunteers.blogspot.com

8 Mar (Sat): Art in Nature at Bukit Timah Nature Reserve

8 Mar (Sat): Free Ecolife Tour for Families

8 Mar (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/

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

Suitable for children aged 5 to 8 years (with parental supervision).

Limited spaces available. Register at least 4 days in advance by emailing ruth_foo@nparks.gov.sg or jeanne_tan@nparks.gov.sg.

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

8 Mar (Sat): Forest walk at the Botanic Gardens Rainforest Trail

A free guided nature walk through a rainforest right in the heart of the city! Along 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

8 Mar (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/

8 Mar (Sat): Mangrove walk at Sungei Buloh

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

Suitable for young children.

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

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

Time: 9.30am 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

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