23-29 Jun: Highlights of the week ahead

A major highlight this weekend is EnviroFest 2008 at the Toa Payoh HDB Hub. The event gathers many groups active in environmental issues under one roof.

If you've always wanted find out more about our environment and what you can do to make a difference, here's an excellent opportunity to do so.

The groups exhibiting at the event will include Nature Society (Singapore), Waterway Watch Society, Animal Concerns Research & Education Society (Acres), Raffles Museum Toddycats!, Cat Welfare Society, Naked Hermit Crabs, Hantu Bloggers, Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (SPCA), Nature Trekker Singapore.

Specially for the kids
Outdoor walksExploring our sea shores!
For a different experience, go stargazing at the Singapore Science Centre.

Registration now open: Visit the wildsingapore happenings blog for a full listing of upcoming events for the next three weeks and to search for events by your area of interest.

This beautiful poster of our very own Glossy Horseshoe Bat reveals one of the many fascinating but little known wild creatures that we share our island with.

29 Jun (Sun): Free Chek jawa boardwalk tour

photo by Andy DineshThe Naked Hermit Crabs introduce you to Chek Jawa without getting your feet wet. Enjoy the great view and find out more about rare coastal plants, cute fiddler crabs, aggressive mudskippers, sturdy mangrove trees, interesting bugs and more!

The free walk will be held every the last Sunday of the month. You don’t even have to sign up. On each public walk day, a few of the volunteer guides will be stationed at the Chek Jawa Info Kiosk in front of House No. 1 at Chek Jawa.

Group size? Come in small friends and family groups of around 6 people or fewer. We expect to have a few guides volunteering each time, but cannot guarantee that we will have a lot of guides. Please …. don’t organize a huge company group and show up at our free walk-in tours. We will be overwhelmed and you will go away very disappointed.

What happened at the event on the adventures with the naked hermit crabs blog

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

29 Jun (Sun): Pulau Ubin Ramble

for Nature Society (Singapore) members only.

Join the Nature Ramblers led by Yap Chung Kui for this 4hr/8km ramble. Explore the numerous trials and savour the rustic charm of the countryside Also see Malay kampongs, fish ponds, coconut groves and fruit trees. The highlight will be a visit to Chek Jawa where you can view marine life from the new boardwalk and climb the tower to have a good look at the surrounding mangrove swamp. Boat fares to be borne by participants. Booking is not required. Not suitable for children below 12 yrs.

Time: 7.45am. Meet at Changi Point Jetty.
Website: http://www.nss.org.sg/
Contact: email contact@nss.org.sg or call 6741 2036.

29 Jun (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: sbwr@pacific.net.sg or call 6794 1401

29 Jun (Sun): Dive Pulau Hantu with the Hantu Bloggers

A unique and educational dive experience in our local waters. Discover what is truly, uniquely Singapore!

Your support helps us monitor and document Hantu's reef on a regular basis! Let's see what's waiting for us out there this time!

Pre-registration is required.

Organised by the Hantu Bloggers, check out their blog for more details of the trip and past exciting encounters.

Join the The Hantu Bloggers Yahoo Group to read the trip itinerary, and to be informed of future dives.

Website: http://www.pulauhantu.org/
Contact: hantublog@gmail.com

28 Jun (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

28 Jun (Sat): Heritage and Nature Walk at Fort Canning Park

Free guided walk to discover the most historic part of Singapore. Malay & Chinese historical records point to this hill as the centre of a kingdom that arose around 1300AD. Previously a "Forbidden Hill", Fort Canning Park once housed some ancient Malay rulers as well as Sir Stamford Raffles who had his house built in 1823 during his 3rd and last visit to Singapore.

This walk is conducted by volunteer guides every last Saturday of the month.

Time: 4-5.30pm
Venue: Meet at Cox Terrace, in front of Fort Canning Centre, Fort Canning Park
Website: http://www.nparks.gov.sg/
Contact: Lili at 63321302 or Goh_lili@nparks.gov.sg

28 Jun (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: 9.30 am 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: sbwr@pacific.net.sg or call 6794 1401

28 Jun (Sat): Guided Tour @ HortPark

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

This tour is conducted every last Saturday of the month.

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

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

28 Jun (Sat): The Secret Life of Flowers -- a workshop at HortPark

Ever seen the insides of a flower really up close? Join this educational workshop and explore the various parts of a flower with a hand-lens. Learn how these flower parts contribute to pollination and the sexual reproduction of the plant.

Conducted by Woon Ling Ling (NParks).

Suitable for kids (9 – 12 years old).

To register, please call the HortPark Hotline at 6471-5601 or email NPARKS_HortPark@nparks.gov.sg. Registration closes 1 day before the event date.

Time: 12.30pm-1.30pm
Venue: HortPark - Fruit Room
Website: http://www.nparks.gov.sg/CsubPage.aspx?prv=Y&pg=124
Contact: 6471-5601 or email NPARKS_HortPark@nparks.gov.sg

28-29 Jun (Sat-Sun): Envirofest 2008


Envirofest is a one-stop event that showcases various local environmental groups and school green clubs that represent the main areas of environmental activism.

Envirofest is a platform for local environmental groups to showcase their conservation efforts and publicize their activities so as to raise awareness among the general public of Singapore. It also hopes to build a network that connects the local eco-community, with the purpose of initiating joint green efforts.

We aim to introduce and promote environmental-related activities as new and interesting recreational activities to the heartlanders. Lastly, we hope to share a real and economical sense of green thinking and green living to Singaporeans in their daily lives through creative projects and exhibitions.

Local environmentalists will be sharing their environmental efforts with the heartlanders on stage. Their topics covered range from nature conservation of Singapore to the marine life at our wonderful shores.

The list of exhibitors include
  • National Environment Agency
  • National Parks Board
  • Public Utilities Board
  • National Library Board
  • Sembwaste
  • Nature Society (Singapore)
  • Waterway Watch Society
  • Animal Concerns Research & Education Society
  • Raffles Museum Toddycats!
  • Cat Welfare Society
  • Naked Hermit Crabs
  • Hantu Bloggers
  • Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals
  • Nature Trekker Singapore
  • Exhibits from the Asean Youth Festival Photography Competition
  • Singapore Polytechnic Environment Club
  • National Junior College Greenlink
  • Hwa Chong Institution
In addition, this environmental awareness carnival will also be a platform for companies to exhibit their eco-products or eco-services.

The opening ceremony will be at 5 pm on 28th June 2008, with Associate Professor Dr Yaacob Ibrahim, Minister for Environment and Water Resources and Member of Parliament for Jalan Besar GRC gracing the event as Guest-of-Honour, and opening Envirofest and as well as launching the SWITCH (Simple Ways I can Take to Change my Habits) campaign nationwide. Joining him will be the NEA CEO Mr Lee Yuen Hee and Mr Sam Tan, MP for Tanjong Pagar GRC.

Time: 11 am-8 pm
Venue: Toa Payoh Amphitheatre (in front of Toa Payoh Community Library)
Website: http://www.kolamayeryouths.sg/envirofest2008/
Contact: boonwah_chan@KolamAyerYouths.sg

27 Jun (Fri): Free Stargazing at the Singapore Science Centre

The Science Centre Observatory is one of the few observatories in the world located next to the Equator. Its unique position allows constellations in both the northern and southern celestial hemispheres to be observed and thus opens up more vistas in the sky for observers.

View the night sky at our free stargazing sessions every Friday night, 7:50pm - 10pm.

Please note that all observations are weather permitting. In the event of cloudy skies, haze or rain observations may not be possible.

More details on the Singapore Science Centre website

Time: 7.50-10pm
Venue: The Science Centre Observatory, near the Omni-Theatre
Website: http://www.science.edu.sg/
Contact: General enquiry 64252 500 or enquiry@science.edu.sg

25 Jun (Wed): Nature walks around Seletar Camp

Seletar Camp has been popular during school holidays and this year, there has been a little more organisation - probably because for most residents, this may be the last holiday season here.

Come and take a stroll around this unique corner of Singapore. See how many different birds you can spot, how many wild and cultivated flowers and plants and trees there are and how many small planes you can see taking off. Talk to residents and ask them about their experiences of living in this natural wonderland. Seletar - a great community, history, nature - so much to offer!

More details on the postcards from seletar blog

Time: 5pm
Website: http://postcardsfromseletar.com/
Contact: Sue 91057778

16-22 Jun: Highlights of the week ahead

The holiday fun continues for the kids and the family. Here's some events to look forward to

Have a fun day outdoors AND make a difference! Help out at Compassionate Day at Acres' Wildlife Rescue Centre on Friday and Saturday.

In the forests, join the Native Plant Hunt to learn more about our native plants in a fun way.

In the gardens, there's a walk at the National Orchid Garden,

In the mangroves, join the guided walks at Sungei Buloh Wetland Reserve on Saturday and Sunday.

For Nature Society (Singapore) members there birdwatching at Pulau Ubin.

On the shores there's an intertidal walk at Pulau Semakau with the Raffles Museum of Biodiversity Research.

For a special night out, go stargazing at the Singapore Science Centre.

Talks this week include
Registration now open: Visit the wildsingapore happenings blog for a full listing of upcoming events for the next three weeks and to search for events by your area of interest.

Marine litter is indeed a hair raising issue. Another thought-provoking photo by Uncle Tay for the photo of the week.

22 Jun (Sun): Birdwatching at Pulau Ubin

for Nature Society (Singapore) members only.

Pulau Ubin has become increasingly popular with holidaymakers seeking one of the last greeneries. This time round, our verteran birder Lim Kim Keang will bring you deeper into the island where surprises await. Besides rubber plantations and fruit tree orchards, island hosts like Oriental Pied Hornbills, Oriental Magpie Robins, Abbott’s Babblers, Red Junglefowl, woodpeckers, parakeets etc will welcome us with their heartwarming calls. Meet . Bring mosquitoes repellent, hat and ample water for this trip.

Time: 7.30am, meet at Pulau Ubin Jetty. (Boat fare per trip cost $2.50 per head to be borne by participants)
Website: http://www.nss.org.sg/
Contact: email contact@nss.org.sg or call 6741 2036.

22 Jun (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: sbwr@pacific.net.sg or call 6794 1401

21 Jun (Sat): Walk at the National Orchid Garden

A leisurely stroll through a garden of orchids and other special plants.

The 4pm tour is in mandarin.

This walk is conducted by the volunteers of the Singapore Botanic Gardens and is held every third Saturday of the month.

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

21 Jun (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: 9.30 am 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: sbwr@pacific.net.sg or call 6794 1401

21 Jun (Sat): Stroll on the Southern Ridges

for Nature Society (Singapore) members only

A Stroll on the Southern Ridges with Yap Von Bing. We will take a leisurely stroll on the brand-new elevated walkway linking the Southern Ridges. Starting at the Alexandra Road, it meanders through a secondary forest through to Telok Blangah Hill. On this stretch, we will get close to many typical plants of the belukar vegetation as well as hear and see birds hanging around the thickets. We shall continue through the park and cross the magnificent Henderson Waves to Mount Faber.

Time: 8.30am, meet on Alexandra Arch (over Alexandra Rd).
Website: http://www.nss.org.sg/
Contact: email contact@nss.org.sg or call 6741 2036.

21 Jun (Sat): Talk on "Singapore Hornbill Project"

The Singapore Hornbill Project, now into its fourth year, is a collaboration among NParks, NTU and the Jurong BirdParks. The study looks into the nesting ecology of the Oriental Pied Hornbill to better understand the factors behind nesting success and failure.

The talk will cover some of the key initiatives of this year's work, including the development of a GPS system to track the ranging pattern of the male hornbill, capture techniques, analysis of blood samples to determine genetic affinities, as well as other important findings.

About the speakers

Marc Cremades is the coordinator of the Singapore Hornbill Project and is also the Advisor (Conservation) of the Avian Department, Jurong BirdPark. Marc has worked for many years on bird breeding programmes in North America, Europe and Africa, and is currently involved in another study on the eco-physiology of birds in their natural habitats.

Prof Ng Soon Chye is an avid naturalist, as well as a former President of the Nature Society (Singapore). A co-initiator of the Singapore Hornbill Project, he is also one of Singapore's leading obstetrician and gyneacologist.

Nathalie and Edmund are final year Biological Sciences undergraduates under Prof Ng's supervision.

Time: 10-11am
Venue: Pulau Ubin, Volunteer Hub
Contact: Adelle Wang WANG_Shumin@nparks.gov.sg

21 Jun (Sat): PLAYing in the Park at Pasir Ris Park

In conjunction with the school holidays in June, PLAYing in the Park is a series of outdoor interactive plays (mini musicals) for children and the young at heart.


Time: 5-6pm
Venue: West Coast Park
Website: http://www.nparks.gov.sg/eventshub.asp

21 Jun (Sat): Get to know Eppy and Friends - a guided mangrove 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 family groups.

For more information about our activities or to register, please email Sunshine Sim at Sunshine_Sim@NParks.gov.sg

Time: 9-10.30am
Venue: Meet at Interpretative Centre
Fees: $4 per pax
Website: http://www.nparks.gov.sg/CPage2.aspx?pg=194&prv=Y
Contact: Sunshine_Sim@NParks.gov.sg

21 Jun (Sat): Talk on "Wayside Trees & Palms" at HortPark

Curious about the trees and palms you see along our local roads ? Then join us in this talk where you will learn how to identify common roadside and heritage trees. Photos of interesting tree/palm fruits, as well as tree-climbing activities will also be shown.

Conducted by Toh Chin Heng (NParks).

To register, please call the HortPark Hotline at 6471-5601 or email NPARKS_HortPark@nparks.gov.sg. Registration closes 1 day before the event date.

Time: 11am-12.30pm
Venue: HortPark - Fruit Room
Website: http://www.nparks.gov.sg/CsubPage.aspx?prv=Y&pg=124
Contact: 6471-5601 or email NPARKS_HortPark@nparks.gov.sg

21 Jun (Sat): Intertidal Walk at Pulau Semakau

This half-day guided walk will take you through the operations of the landfill and the pristine intertidal area of Pulau Semakau. Guided by Raffles Museum of Biodiversity Research Semakau volunteer guides, participants will explore the richness of the seagrass meadows and coral reefs without having to dive in our waters.

Booking required. Reservations not accepted. Booking is on a first-come-first-serve basis.

21 June, 5-10.30am (30 places available)
30 places available. Please register early: email Luan Keng dbswlk@nus.edu.sg your name, organisation (if any), date of walk, number of
participants. To confirm your booking, a non-refundable pre-payment is
required. I will confirm payment details once I've received your
registration.

More about the walks on the RMBR website. More about Pulau Semaku on the wildsingapore website.

Time: 5-11am
Departure point: participants will be advised
Cost: $53.50/adult, $40.60/child (age 7-18); all cost is inclusive of 7% GST, boat rides (return), guiding fees, guidesheets and coordinating fees.
Website: RMBR website
Contact: Luan Keng dbswlk@nus.edu.sg

21 Jun (Sat): Earth-Friendly Puppet-Making at the Library

Transform everyday items like cardboard, plastic bags, newspapers, buttons, strings and other scrap materials into fantasy characters and animals puppets with movable parts. Children are encouraged to bring recyclable refuse from home to be transformed, and have their imaginations unleashed into creating eco-friendly puppets. Through this craft session, children will enjoy learn the value of reducing, reusing and recycling. Save the world. Make a puppet today.

Time: 2-3pm
Venue: Activity Room, Toa Payoh Community Library
Website: http://golibrary.nlb.gov.sg/
Contact: helpdesk@nlb.gov.sg 6332 3255

21 Jun (Sat): Native Plant Hunt at Hindhede Nature Park

A free fun activity among the tall shady trees of Hindhede Nature Park, overlooking scenic quarry views. Form a team of three to five members, pick up your clues at the Bukit Timah Nature Reserve Visitor Centre, and you're on your way to learn more about at least eight native plant species! You have one hour to complete your hunt.

Registration for the free plant hunt is limited to maximum of 10 people per registrant.

The activity 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: 10 -11am. Start at the Bukit Timah Nature Reserve Visitor Centre.
Website: http://www.nparks.gov.sg
Contact: vanessa_chang@nparks.gov.sg or 6554 5127.

21 Jun (Sat): A Compassionate Day at Acres

Your help is needed with a wide array of tasks, ranging from painting, spring cleaning, tree planting, to gardening. Many hands make light work and it would be a great opportunity to meet other animal advocates.

Things to bring:
  • Your own drinking water/ food (Vegetarian).
  • Paint rollers, paint trays, poles (for painting higher areas) and masking tape.
  • Gardening gloves.
  • Cloth/rags for wiping and old newspapers.
  • Garden scissors and shears.
  • Trash bags.

Volunteering starts at 10am and finishes at 5pm.

Here are the directions to ACRES Wildlife Rescue Centre (AWRC) (for printing): http://www.acres.org.sg/AWRC%20map.gif

If you would like to volunteer, please email Anbu (anbu@acres.org.sg) to confirm the days and times you can help out!

See you there!

Best wishes,
Louis
ACRES
www.acres.org.sg

21 Jun (Sat): Fruits! Glorious Fruits! -- a guided tour for kids

Be amazed by the many different types of fruits that we have in our Children’s Garden! Feast your eyes on a visual treat in this ‘fruit’ful guided tour. Join us to learn about amazing fruit facts.

Suitable for children in K1 - P6 levels

More details on the Singapore Botanic Gardens workshop page

Time: 10-11am
Cost: $6 per child or parent
Venue: Jacob Ballas Children’s Garden, Bukit Timah Core
Website: http://www.sbg.org.sg/
Contact: 6471 9961 or nparks_sbg_edu@nparks.gov.sg

20 Jun (Fri): Free Stargazing at the Singapore Science Centre

The Science Centre Observatory is one of the few observatories in the world located next to the Equator. Its unique position allows constellations in both the northern and southern celestial hemispheres to be observed and thus opens up more vistas in the sky for observers.

View the night sky at our free stargazing sessions every Friday night, 7:50pm - 10pm.

Please note that all observations are weather permitting. In the event of cloudy skies, haze or rain observations may not be possible.

More details on the Singapore Science Centre website

Time: 7.50-10pm
Venue: The Science Centre Observatory, near the Omni-Theatre
Website: http://www.science.edu.sg/
Contact: General enquiry 64252 500 or enquiry@science.edu.sg

20 Jun (Fri): Talk on "Kingfishers of Sungei Buloh" at the Library

Did you know that there are a myriad of beautiful birds that call Sungei Buloh home? One of them is the Kingfisher. Ever wondered how many types of kingfishers there are in the mangroves, what do they eat and what kind of call do they make? Come join us for a fun filled talk and hands on session as Sungei Buloh Wetland Reserve brings you into the world of the Fisher-birds!

Time: 4.30-5.15pm
Venue: Activities Room, Cheng San Community Library
Website: http://golibrary.nlb.gov.sg/
Contact: helpdesk@nlb.gov.sg 6332 3255

20 Jun (Fri): A Compassionate Day at Acres

Your help is needed with a wide array of tasks, ranging from painting, spring cleaning, tree planting, to gardening. Many hands make light work and it would be a great opportunity to meet other animal advocates.

Things to bring:
  • Your own drinking water/ food (Vegetarian).
  • Paint rollers, paint trays, poles (for painting higher areas) and masking tape.
  • Gardening gloves.
  • Cloth/rags for wiping and old newspapers.
  • Garden scissors and shears.
  • Trash bags.

Volunteering starts at 10am and finishes at 5pm.

Here are the directions to ACRES Wildlife Rescue Centre (AWRC) (for printing): http://www.acres.org.sg/AWRC%20map.gif

If you would like to volunteer, please email Anbu (anbu@acres.org.sg) to confirm the days and times you can help out!

See you there!

Best wishes,
Louis
ACRES
www.acres.org.sg

19 Jun (Thu): Paper Nature Craft Workshop for kids

Join us and learn how to make beautiful but simple nature displays that are all made with paper! Creations include a bat cave, bird sanctuary or a koi pond. Materials are provided. Participants get to bring home their own creations.

Suitable for children aged 6-12 yrs old.

Register for two or more workshops and enjoy up to 20% discount per pax.

For more information about our activities or to register, please email Sunshine Sim at Sunshine_Sim@NParks.gov.sg

Time: 9-10.30am
Venue: D Space, Pasir Ris Park (carpark E)
Fees: $10 per child
Website: http://www.nparks.gov.sg/CPage2.aspx?pg=194&prv=Y
Contact: Sunshine_Sim@NParks.gov.sg

18 Jun (Wed): Discover the Colourful World of Butterflies at the Library

Listen to a story, make a craft and discover the fascinating world of butterfliess. An hour programme full of activities and games. Please bring along your colour pencils. Limited to 20 children from 7-9 years old.

Registration is required. Please register at the Woodlands Regional Library customer service counter at Level 3.

Time: 3-4pm
Venue: Everest Room, Woodlands Regional Library
Cost: $2 per participant
Website and contact: http://golibrary.nlb.gov.sg/

17 Jun (Tue): Fruits! Glorious Fruits! -- a guided tour for kids

Be amazed by the many different types of fruits that we have in our Children’s Garden! Feast your eyes on a visual treat in this ‘fruit’ful guided tour. Join us to learn about amazing fruit facts.

Suitable for children in K1 - P6 levels

More details on the Singapore Botanic Gardens workshop page

Time: 10-11am
Cost: $6 per child or parent
Venue: Jacob Ballas Children’s Garden, Bukit Timah Core
Website: http://www.sbg.org.sg/
Contact: 6471 9961 or nparks_sbg_edu@nparks.gov.sg

16 Jun (Mon): Discover the Colourful World of Butterflies at the Library

Listen to a story, make a craft and discover the fascinating world of butterfliess. An hour programme full of activities and games. Please bring along your colour pencils. Limited to 20 children from 7-9 years old.

Registration is required. Please register at the Woodlands Regional Library customer service counter at Level 3.

Time: 3-4pm
Venue: Everest Room, Woodlands Regional Library
Cost: $2 per participant
Website and contact: http://golibrary.nlb.gov.sg/

9-15 Jun: Highlights of the week ahead

Please take note:
  • Closures at Sungei Buloh Wetland Reserve: The bridge leading to Hide 3A (Route 3) at the Freshwater Ponds will be closed 2-30 Jun for maintenance, from the Sungei Buloh Wetland Reserve website.

More holiday fun for the kids and the family in our great wild outdoors!


In the forests, join the guided walk at the Botanic Gardens Rainforest Trail.

In the mangroves, join the guided walks at Sungei Buloh Wetland Reserve on Saturday and Sunday.

Other special activities this week include
Registration now open: Visit the wildsingapore happenings blog for a full listing of upcoming events for the next three weeks and to search for events by your area of interest.

The Photo of the Week is this red feather star taken by il mare at Kusu Island during a reef survey there. Our reefs are very much alive!

Red Featherstar, originally uploaded by il_mare77.

15 Jun (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: sbwr@pacific.net.sg or call 6794 1401

15 Jun (Sun): Sports Fishing at Semakau with the Sport Fishing Association of Singapore

From January to September 2008, SFAS Semakau sport fishing trip will be an on going fishing league, based on a point system, there will be total of nine trips to compete for the League Champion and a final shoot out in October 2008. Those who do not wish to take part in the league can also come for the trips during this time.

The SFAS practice catch and release and among the rules are that anglers must demonstrate proper conduct and practice good fishing ethics and etiquette, and anglers are to use artificial lures or flies for sport fishing and not to use any organic baits (dead or alive) in all fishing activities.

Registration opens 5 May and closes 9 Jun. More details.

Time: 7.30am-2pm
Website: http://www.sfas.net/
Contact: info@sfas.net

14 Jun (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: 9.30 am 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: sbwr@pacific.net.sg or call 6794 1401

14 Jun (Sat): PLAYing in the Park at East Coast Park

In conjunction with the school holidays in June, PLAYing in the Park is a series of outdoor interactive plays (mini musicals) for children and the young at heart.


Time: 5-6pm
Venue: West Coast Park
Website: http://www.nparks.gov.sg/eventshub.asp

14 Jun (Sat): Let’s get Wokking! A workshop

Cook up a storm in our cooking workshop. Learn to make simple but delicious dishes such as nasi ulam and assam pedas. All ingredients are gathered fresh from our Kitchen Garden, Pasir Ris Park. Workshop includes a brief guided walk in our Kitchen Garden.

Register for two or more workshops and enjoy up to 20% discount per pax.

For more information about our activities or to register, please email Sunshine Sim at Sunshine_Sim@NParks.gov.sg

Time: 9-10.30am
Venue: Kitchen Garden (carpark C), Pasir Ris Park
Fees: $15 per pax
Website: http://www.nparks.gov.sg/CPage2.aspx?pg=194&prv=Y
Contact: Sunshine_Sim@NParks.gov.sg

14 Jun (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

14 Jun (Sat): Recycling Art Fun for kids at the Library

Learn creative ways of transforming useless items to usable ones. Limited to 30 children aged 5 – 12.

Registration is required via either our website (http://golibrary.nlb.gov.sg) or at the Customer Service Counter (6332 3255)

Time: 3-4pm
Venue: Ang Mo Kio Community Library
Website: http://golibrary.nlb.gov.sg/
Contact: helpdesk@nlb.gov.sg 6332 3255

13 Jun (Fri): Free Stargazing at the Singapore Science Centre

The Science Centre Observatory is one of the few observatories in the world located next to the Equator. Its unique position allows constellations in both the northern and southern celestial hemispheres to be observed and thus opens up more vistas in the sky for observers.

View the night sky at our free stargazing sessions every Friday night, 7:50pm - 10pm.

Please note that all observations are weather permitting. In the event of cloudy skies, haze or rain observations may not be possible.

More details on the Singapore Science Centre website

Time: 7.50-10pm
Venue: The Science Centre Observatory, near the Omni-Theatre
Website: http://www.science.edu.sg/
Contact: General enquiry 64252 500 or enquiry@science.edu.sg

13 Jun (Fri): Art of Paper Making workshop for kids

Engage your child’s creativity in our fun and experiential papermaking workshop. A wonderful way to teach recycle waste into wonderful possibilities such as envelopes, greeting cards, artwork and more. Suitable for children aged 6 yrs to 12 yrs old. Materials are provided for. Participants get to bring home their own creation.

Register for two or more workshops and enjoy up to 20% discount per pax.

For more information about our activities or to register, please email Sunshine Sim at Sunshine_Sim@NParks.gov.sg

Time: 9-10.30am
Venue: D Space, Pasir Ris Park (carpark E)
Fees: $10 per child
Website: http://www.nparks.gov.sg/CPage2.aspx?pg=194&prv=Y
Contact: Sunshine_Sim@NParks.gov.sg

12 Jun (Thu): Nature walks around Seletar Camp

Seletar Camp has been popular during school holidays and this year, there has been a little more organisation - probably because for most residents, this may be the last holiday season here.

Come and take a stroll around this unique corner of Singapore. See how many different birds you can spot, how many wild and cultivated flowers and plants and trees there are and how many small planes you can see taking off. Talk to residents and ask them about their experiences of living in this natural wonderland. Seletar - a great community, history, nature - so much to offer!

More details on the postcards from seletar blog

Time: 5pm
Website: http://postcardsfromseletar.com/
Contact: Sue 91057778

11 Jun (Wed): Discover the Colourful World of Butterflies at the Library

Listen to a story, make a craft and discover the fascinating world of butterfliess. An hour programme full of activities and games. Please bring along your colour pencils. Limited to 20 children from 7-9 years old.

Registration is required. Please register at the Woodlands Regional Library customer service counter at Level 3.

Time: 3-4pm
Venue: Everest Room, Woodlands Regional Library
Cost: $2 per participant
Website and contact: http://golibrary.nlb.gov.sg/

11 Jun (Wed): Surprise for Daddy – guided walk at Kitchen Garden

Father’s Day is just round the corner & Ashley is giving her Dad a surprise by cooking his favorite assam pedas pasta! But she has no idea how the different spices look like. Take a tour at our kitchen garden and learn the various types of spices and uses.

Suitable for children aged 6 yrs to 12 yrs old.

For more information about our activities or to register, please email Sunshine Sim at Sunshine_Sim@NParks.gov.sg

Time: 9-10am
Venue: Meet at carpark C
Fees: $4 per child
Website: http://www.nparks.gov.sg/CPage2.aspx?pg=194&prv=Y
Contact: Sunshine_Sim@NParks.gov.sg

10 Jun (Tue): The Birthday Party -- a guided tour for kids

Sara At The Children’s Garden

Sara is celebrating her baby brother’s birthday party. At the last minute, she realizes she forgot the birthday present! Help Sara search for the perfect gift at the Children’s Garden. Along the way, have a fun and memorable experience in this new Garden dedicated to children.

Suitable for children in K1 – P2 levels.

More details on the Singapore Botanic Gardens workshop page

Time: 10-11am
Cost: $8.50 per child (includes $2.50 “The Birthday Party. Sara at the Children’s Garden” workbook); $6.00 per accompanying parent.
Venue: Jacob Ballas Children’s Garden, Bukit Timah Core
Website: http://www.sbg.org.sg/
Contact: 6471 9961 or nparks_sbg_edu@nparks.gov.sg

9 Jun (Mon): Family Walk at Sentosa shore with the Naked Hermit Crabs

5 June is World Environment Day! Join the Naked Hermit Crabs in their mission to showcase the diverse marine life and natural beauty on our shores. They will bring you on a mini adventure to a beautiful natural shore tucked away in a corner of Sentosa. There will be lots to see. Just read their previous blog entries on trips to Sentosa.

Suitable for kids in K1 and K2. A great outing for the family!

Registration is required. Walk-in are NOT accepted.

There used to be a $5 per person charge for the Sentosa walks. But this year, the Sentosa walks are sponsored by Transitions Optical. So the Sentosa walks are FREE this time round!

More details on the adventures with the naked hermit crabs blog

Time and meeting place: those who register will be informed.
Website: http://nakedhermitcrabs.blogspot.com/
Contact: nakedhermitcrabs@gmail.com

2-8 Jun: Highlights of the week ahead

Announcements!
  • Chek Jawa intertidal walks in Jul-Sep: Registration opens as of 1 Jun For walks on 7 Jul (Mon) 8am and 8 Jul (Tue) 10am. More details on the NParks website.
  • Closures at Sungei Buloh The bridge leading to Hide 3A (Route 3) at the Freshwater Ponds will be closed 2-30 Jun for maintenance, from the Sungei Buloh Wetland Reserve website.
MORE wild holiday fun for the whole family!

Lots of guided walks!

In the gardens, join the special World Environment Day kitchen garden walk at Pasir Ris, Edible and Medicinal Plants tour at the Botanic Gardens, Exploring Herbs and Spices at HortPark,

In the forests, join the guided walk at Lower Peirce Boardwalk and MacRitchie Prunus Trail

In the mangroves, join the special World Environment Day mangrove walk at Pasir Ris and regular guided walks at Sungei Buloh Wetland Reserve on Saturday or Sunday.

On the shores, more guided walks!
For the more active, join Pedal Ubin a cycling tour of our last unspoilt island.

For Nature Society (Singapore) members only: Horseshoe crab Research and Rescue at Kranji, learn green recipes with Go Green, Go Vegetarian

Have fun AND make a difference!
Talks this week
Registration now open: Visit the wildsingapore happenings blog for a full listing of upcoming events for the next three weeks and to search for events by your area of interest.

This week's photo is this baby shark shared by chimck and taken on one of our offshore reefs! Our shores are alive with fascinating creatures!


Shark @ Beting Bronok, originally uploaded by chimck.