25-31 Oct: Highlights of the week ahead

For kids and the family

Special events

Walks in wild places

Talks this week

For Nature Society (Singapore) members only

Registration now open

Highlights of Singapore nature news

Highlights of Singapore nature blogs

31 Oct (Sun): The Art of Paper Folding at Sungei Buloh

Origami is not only fun, but is also an artistic way of interpreting animals, plants, objects, or basically anything you can think of! The focus of this origami workshop will be on animals that can be found in our nature areas.

Special for this migratory bird season, learn how to folding flapping birds!

For more details see the Purple Mangroves blog.

Time: 1.30-3pm
Venue: Sungei Buloh Wetland Reserve, meet at the Information Counter at the Visitor Centre
Entry charges: While the event is free, admission fees to the Reserve apply: $1 per adult, 50cents per child/student/senior citizen.
Website and contact: http://www.sbwr.org.sg/

31 Oct (Sun): Dive Pulau Hantu with the Hantu Bloggers

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

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

Pre-registration is required.

Organised by the Hantu Bloggers, check out their blog for more details of the upcoming trip and to register online.

From the Hantu Bloggers: "The Hantu Blog Dives are integral to our work on the island. More than just an educational field trip, our dives are also our primary source of funding to develop and maintain public education work in schools and at national events. By joining our dives, you’ll not only be signing up for an insightful and eye-opening weekend, you’ll also be contributing to our efforts to safe guard Pulau Hantu and its marine life."

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

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

31 Oct (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.

With a special mandarin guided tour at 9.30am

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

More about the Sungei Buloh Wetland Reserve on the wildsingapore website and Sungei Buloh Wetland Reserve website. This walk is conducted by the volunteer guides of NParks' Sungei Buloh Wetland Reserve and is held every Sunday morning, subject to availability of guides.

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

31 Oct (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 the Sungei Buloh Wetland Reserve ticketing counter (Visitor Centre).
Venue: Platform 1.
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://artinwetlands.wordpress.com/
Contact: Tham Pui Sam at thampuisan@hotmail.com or the Sungei Buloh Wetland Reserve at info@sbwr.org.sg or call 6794 1401

30 Oct (Sat): Talk on "Discovering Native Plants at your Doorstep!"

Guess what the Singapore Rhododendron, Singapore Adenia and Singapore Walking-stick Palm have in common? They are all named after Singapore and are plants that are native to our little island! In fact, more than 2200 species of native plants have been recorded for Singapore ever since that fateful day in 1819 when Sir Stamford Raffles stepped foot on our shores. You may be surprised to know that some of these plants are still commonly encountered in daily life and may even be growing in your home. Through this talk, you will learn more about the significance of native plants and be introduced to some fascinating and delightful Singapore native plant species, including their uses and tips on cultivation.

All are welcome.

Time: 3-4pm
Venue: Pasir Ris Library
Website: http://www.nparks.gov.sg/
Contact: Ms Zheng Jiahui zheng_jiahui@nparks.gov.sg

30 Oct (Sat): Birdwatching at Kranji Marsh

for Nature Society (Singapore) members only

Kenneth Kee leads this walk. 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 the PUB’s ABC Waters Programme. Birding highlights here include the Red-wattled Lapwing, Purple Swamphen, Rusty-breasted Cuckoo, White-browed Crake, Changeable Hawk Eagle and more.

Booking required by 13 October 2010 (max: 20 pax) at email: kranji@nss.org.sg.

Time: 7.45am
Venue: Meet at Kranji Dam Carpark near the Tidal Gates of Kranji Reservoir (off Kranji Way). Reachable by Bus 925 from Kranji MRT Station. From here, a hired bus will ferry us to our destination.
Website: http://www.nss.org.sg
Contact: email contact@nss.org.sg or call 6741 2036.

30 Oct (Sat): Free Guided Nature Walk at Pasir Ris Park

Grant Pereira and the Green Volunteers take you on this 2-hour stroll through mangroves and vegetable and spice gardens. After walk you might want to help out at the spice garden to do some gardening and weeding.

Limited to 20 persons. Registration required. Email grant@rameshtravel.com with your name, mobile number and total number of people attending. First come first serve basis!

Time: 9am sharp, meet at station control Pasir Ris MRT Station
Website and contact: http://thegreenvolunteers.blogspot.com/

30 Oct (Sat): Talk on "What's on the caterpillar and butterflyi's menu?"

Most of us know that caterpillars munch on leaves while butterflies go for nectar in flowers. However, do you know that caterpillars are choosy eaters that do not devour leaves from any plant type? Also, butterflies may not find nectar in any opened blossom? Join us to learn more about the plants that caterpillars and butterflies depend on, and how you can help to conserve and attract these precious flying jewels by growing these plants in your garden.

Speaker is Syaiful Hakim.

The talk is free but registration is required. To register email NPARK_HortPark@nparks.gov.sg or call 6471-5601.

Time: 11am-noon
Venue: The Lab, Hands-On House, HortPark
Website: http://www.nparks.gov.sg/

30 Oct (Sat): Fort Canning Spice Garden guided walk

"Revisiting History, Embracing Nature"
Join us as we guide you along The Fort Canning Spice Trail and discover the fascinating world of spices.

This trail sits on the site of Singapore’s first experimental and botanical garden. A small replica of the 19ha garden, it now has a collection of more than a hundred species of plants - spice, herbs, medicinal, economical and ornamentals. Nutmeg (Myristica fragrans) and Clove (Syzygium aromaticum) trees, which were planted extensively in the first garden, can be found there as well.

Other attractions along this trail also includes the Archaeological Dig, which showcases the actual excavation site, the only such exhibition in modern Singapore and Keramat, believed to be a tomb of Singapore’s last king, Sultan Iskandar Syah.

Whether it is botanical or historical, learning about our history is just a walk in the park.

Walk is moderately easy but will involve walking up slopes and steps so do come dressed comfortably. The tour lasts two and a half hours. This walk is held every last Saturday of the month.

You may also opt for the Heritage on the Hill tour, which will bring you around the park and discover the events that have changed and shaped the face of Fort Canning over the years.

Pre-registration required. Call 63321200 or 63321302 or email surinam_sumsudin@nparks.gov.sg

Time: 4-6.30pm
Venue: Meet courtyard opposite NParks Visitor Centre, Fort Canning Centre
Website: http://www.nparks.gov.sg/
Contact: 63321200 or 63321302 or email surinam_sumsudin@nparks.gov.sg

30 Oct (Sat): HortPark Butterfly Garden guided tour

HortPark's latest attraction - Butterfly Garden - is an experimental project that supports efforts for a Butterfly Species Recovery Programme. It aims to breed various butterfly species, including locally extince species using suitable nectar and host plants in the enclosure.

Get up close and personal with the flying jewels, and learn their different stages of metamorphosis from egg to caterpillar into butterfly. Observe how pupae emerge into adult butterflies before taking their maiden flight within HortPark's Butterfly Garden.

This walk is held every last Saturday of the month

Time: 10am, please gather at the Butterfly Garden for the tour
Website: http://www.nparks.gov.sg/
Contact: 6471 5601

30 Oct (Sat): Mangrove walk at Sungei Buloh

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

Suitable for young children.

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

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

Time: 9.30am and 3.30pm for walk in guests, register at the Visitor Centre.
Tour duration: One to one-and-a-half hours. Suitable for young children.
Entry charges: While the walk is free, admission fees to the Reserve apply: $1 per adult, 50cents per child/student/senior citizen.
Website: http://www.sbwr.org.sg/
Contact:
info@sbwr.org.sg or call 6794 1401

18-24 Oct: Highlights of the week ahead

For kids and the family

Walks in wild places

Film screening

For Nature Society (Singapore) members only

Registration now open

Highlights of Singapore nature news

Highlights of Singapore nature blogs

24 Oct (Sun): Mangrove walk at Sungei Buloh

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

Suitable for young children.

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

More about the Sungei Buloh Wetland Reserve on the wildsingapore website and Sungei Buloh Wetland Reserve website. This walk is conducted by the volunteer guides of NParks' Sungei Buloh Wetland Reserve and is held every Sunday morning, subject to availability of guides.

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

23 Oct (Sun): Birdwatching at Semakau Landfill

for Nature Society (Singapore) members only

A good time to visit Pulau Semakau for resident birds and migrant surprises. Resident attractions include the Great-billed Heron, Pacific Reef Egret and Malaysian Plover. There is also the possibility of seeing rare migrants like the Chinese Egret and Ashy Drongo.

Non-refundable $28 fee for boat and administration. Send your cheque to the NSS office by 14 Oct with the All Purpose Form. Number of persons for this trip: 11, 22 or 33. Book your place with Wing Chong at wingchong58@yahoo.com. Resident/PR identity card or passport is mandatory for boarding. Strictly for members only on a first come first served basis. Under NEA regulations, children below 12 years old are not allowed to come. Please note that your reservation is not automatically confirmed until you hear from your trip leader after the closing date.

Time: 7.30am.
Meet at West Coast Pier near the Republic of Singapore Yacht Club.

Website: http://www.nss.org.sg/
Contact: email contact@nss.org.sg or call 6741 2036.

23 Oct (Sat): Evolution Garden guided tour

Take a journey through time, from the fiery planet that our world was in ancient times before memory, through the planet of dinosaurs, and into the modern world of 250,000 different flowering plants we enjoy today.

Journey through time with our volunteer guides in this one-hour tour.

Suitable for kids.

This walk is held every fourth Saturday of the month. Please register 15 minutes before the tour. Registration is on a first-come-first-served basis at the Singapore Botanic Gardens Visitor Centre.

Time: 9am (English tour) and 4pm (Mandarin tour)
Venue: Register at Singapore Botanic Gardens Visitor Centre before the tour starts.
Website: http://www.nparks.gov.sg/
Contact: Visitor Services 6471 7361

23 Oct (Sat): Free Chek Jawa boardwalk tour with the Naked Hermit Crabs

photo by Andy DineshThe Naked Hermit Crabs introduce you to Chek Jawa without getting your feet wet. 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 boars, 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 at nakedhermitcrabs@gmail.com

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

23 Oct (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.

Special Marine Fish tour at 3.30pm.

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

23 Oct (Sat): Guided walk at the Fort Canning Spice Trail

"Revisiting History, Embracing Nature"
Join us as we guide you along The Fort Canning Spice Trail and discover the fascinating world of spices.

This trail sits on the site of Singapore’s first experimental and botanical garden. A small replica of the 19ha garden, it now has a collection of more than a hundred species of plants - spice, herbs, medicinal, economical and ornamentals. Nutmeg (Myristica fragrans) and Clove (Syzygium aromaticum) trees, which were planted extensively in the first garden, can be found there as well.

Other attractions along this trail also includes the Archaeological Dig, which showcases the actual excavation site, the only such exhibition in modern Singapore and Keramat, believed to be a tomb of Singapore’s last king, Sultan Iskandar Syah.

Whether it is botanical or historical, learning about our history is just a walk in the park.

Walk is moderately easy but will involve walking up slopes and steps so do come dressed comfortably. The tour lasts two and a half hours. This walk is held every last Saturday of the month.

You may also opt for the Heritage on the Hill tour, which will bring you around the park and discover the events that have changed and shaped the face of Fort Canning over the years.

Pre-registration required. Call 63321200 or 63321302 or email surinam_sumsudin@nparks.gov.sg

Time: 4-6.30pm
Venue: Meet courtyard opposite NParks Visitor Centre, Fort Canning Centre
Website: http://www.nparks.gov.sg/
Contact: 63321200 or 63321302 or email surinam_sumsudin@nparks.gov.sg

23 Oct (Sat): PrawnWatch at Sungei Buloh

Free guided introduction to traditional prawn farming. Go on a journey back to the past, where the history of Sungei Buloh Wetland Reserve as prawn and fish farms is one not to be ignored. The importance of mangroves as a spawning place and nursery for prawns and other life played an important role in shaping Sungei Buloh today. The traditional method of prawn harvesting will be demonstrated and how the tidal influence play a part in this activity will be brought to life.

The highlight is a real hands-on demonstration of a prawn harvest. The kids will be thrilled to check out what comes up with the net, see real live prawns and learn more about our seafood and the tides.

The walk is approximately 5km on wide earthen trails. Suitable for older children who are reasonably fit.

Registration is not required for small walk-in groups.

More about PrawnWatch on the Sungei Buloh website. More about the Sungei Buloh Wetland Reserve on the wildsingapore website and Sungei Buloh Wetland Reserve website.

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

22 Oct (Fri): Free screening of "Home" and panel discussion

The classic documentary HOME by Yann Arthus-Bertrand is not only an homage to the beautiful planet we inhabit but also serves as a warning of what we stand to lose by ignoring the full extent of how much damage we are doing to the Earth's riches with our changing patterns of consumption.

Yann Arthus-Bertrand takes us on a journey to 54 countries to highlight state of our planet and the challenges humanity faces.


Following the screening of the film, representatives from the NUS office of Environmental Sustainability, Singapore Environment Council and Green Drinks Singapore will lead in a discussion on what we can do to reverse the trend.

Admission is free and all are welcome, but registration is required at https://www.alum.nus.edu.sg/registration/?reference=221010


Time: 7.30pm
Venue: Shaw Foundation Alumni House Auditorium, National University of Singapore. How to get there.
Website: http://www.alumnet.nus.edu.sg/

20 Oct (Wed): "Our Home, The Seashore" with Cicada Tree Eco Place

Tides come in and out from the sea. Those living on the seashore have adapted to living with the tides, waves and hot sun. They make their cozy homes in all sorts of things, from rocks and sand, to shells and seaweed. Who are they? Let’s have fun on the seashore and learn all about the plants and animals that call this home.

Just as we treasure Singapore as our home, so too do many native (local) plants and animals call Singapore’s wild habitats their home. Sadly, most kids and grown-ups know very little about our natural areas like our forest, grassland, freshwater swamp, mangrove and seashore habitats, where many species of native wildlife live. Through “Our Home” lessons on Singapore’s natural habitats, kids will learn about animals, plants and ecology of Singapore’s wild habitats.

This environmental education program is suitable for kids aged 5 to 10, from kindergarten to primary school.

Five topics will be offered in a series of 5 lessons. Children who register for all 5 sessions will enjoy a discount of $15 (Attend 5 lessons, pay for 4). Registration is subject to space availability. More details on http://www.cicadatree.org.sg

Time: 2.30-4.30 pm
Venue: Labrador Park or Changi Beach
Cost: $15 which includes a custom-made button-badge and information pamphlet will be given to all registered kids.
Contact: Celine Low at contact@cicadatree.org.sg
Website: http://www.cicadatree.org.sg

11-17 Oct: Highlights of the week ahead

For kids and the family

Walks in wild places

Talks this week
  • 16 Oct (Sat): "Butterflies of Singapore" by Khew Sin Khoon, author of the recently launched Field Guide to Butterfliers of Singapore.

Registration now open
Highlights of Singapore nature news

Highlights of Singapore nature blogs

Photos of the week are the very many lovely butterfly photos featured in the brand new 'Field guide to the butterflies of Singapore' that was recently launched. Read all about the book in Metamorphosis - the Birth of a New (Butterfly) Book from Butterflies of Singapore. To find out more, come for the author's talk on 16 Oct (Sat): "Butterflies of Singapore".

17 Oct (Sun): Mangrove walk at Sungei Buloh

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

Suitable for young children.

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

More about the Sungei Buloh Wetland Reserve on the wildsingapore website and Sungei Buloh Wetland Reserve website. This walk is conducted by the volunteer guides of NParks' Sungei Buloh Wetland Reserve and is held every Sunday morning, subject to availability of guides.

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

16 Oct (Sat): Our Kitchen Garden Tour at Pasir Ris

Excite your senses with our Kitchen Garden Tour. Find out how vegetables are grown before it gets onto your plate! You will also learn about some natural remedies that our grandmothers might have planted in their own backyard.

Suitable for children from K1-P6 levels.

To register, please contact Wei Teng at 64653305 or email chong_wei_teng@nparks.gov.sg

Time: 9am - 10am
Venue: Pasir Ris Park, Pasir Ris Green (Carpark C)
Cost: $4 per person
Website: http://www.nparks.gov.sg/
Contact: chong_wei_teng@nparks.gov.sg

16 Oct (Sat): Mangrove walk at Pasir Ris

Eppy Walk What exactly is a mudskipper? And who is Fiddler crab or Sesamine crab? Does a dog-faced water snake look more like a dog or a snake? Join the team and discover answers to the questions above and more. And if we’re lucky, we may be able to see some of the seashore animals at the river mouth (depending on the tide conditions).

Suitable for kids.

Registration closes two days before the walk date.

This walk is held every third Saturday. More details on the Pasir Ris Park website.

Time: 9-10am
Venue: Pasir Ris Park, Pasir Ris Green (Carpark C)
Cost: $4/person
Website: http://www.nparks.gov.sg/
Contact:Lili at lin_lili@nparks.gov.sg

16 Oct (Sat): Rainforest walk at the 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.

At this walk, the guide will introduce you to the common native flora and fauna found in the primary rainforest.

This guided walk is suitable for families with children 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.

Registration is required at least a week before the walk. Contact Vanessa Chang at 6554 5127 or Vanessa_CHANG@nparks.gov.sg.

Time: 9.30am. Meet at the Bukit Timah Nature Reserve Visitor Centre, at the ranger counter.
Tour duration: About one hour.
Website: http://www.nparks.gov.sg/

16 Oct (Sat): Guided walk at the Sensory Trail, Pulau Ubin

Experience Ubin's wonderful nature through your senses along our Sensory Trail, the trail will brought you to the patch of herbs and spices and a "Secret Garden" to feel the original garden used to be on the island. Much more along the trail for you to explore.

This walk is held every third Saturday of the month.

Booking now online until 9 Oct.

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/

16 Oct (Sat): National Orchid Garden guided tour

Explore the beauty and diversity of orchids in the National Orchid Garden, Singapore Botanic Gardens.

Since 1859, orchids have been closely associated with the Singapore Botanic Gardens. The products of the Gardens' orchid breeding programme, which began in 1928, deserve a place where they can be displayed in their full splendour. The very design of these orchids is, one could say, 'hand-crafted' by the Gardens' horticultural staff, dedicated to bringing out the finest in any hybrid cross.

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. So that all may admire and enjoy their diversity, richness and beauty, the National Orchid Garden now offers a permanent showcase, the largest display of tropical orchids in the world.

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

16 Oct (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

16 Oct (Sat): Talk on "Butterflies of Singapore"

Learn more about Singapore's gorgeous butterflies at this talk by Khew Sin Khoon, the author of the brand new "A Field Guide to Butterflies of Singapore"
Khew and the Butterfly Circle have been sharing exquisite photos and meticulous and fascinating details about our butterflies through the Butterflies of Singapore blog. You can also find out more about our butterflies on the Butterfly Circle website which includes a photo checklist and fact sheets.

The talk is free. All are welcome!

Time: 10am
Venue: Function Hall, Botany Centre, Singapore Botanic Gardens

16 Oct (Sat): Monkeys with the Nature Keepers

Part of NPark's Nature Keeper Programme, kids will learn to read the facial expressions and behaviors of Long-tailed Macaques, and react appropriately and safely according to their behavior.

Suitable for children aged 7 to 12 years old. The event is free but pre-registration is required with Jeanne Tan (Ms) at 65545123 or Jeanne_Tan@nparks.gov.sg

More about the Nature Keeper Programme.

Time: 9am - 12pm
Venue: Bukit Timah Nature Reserve
Website: http://www.nparks.gov.sg/

4-10 Oct: Highlights of the week ahead

For kids and the family

Special event

Walks in wild places

Talks this week

Exhibition now on
for Nature Society (Singapore) members only

Registration now open
Highlights of Singapore nature news

Highlights of Singapore nature blogs

10 Oct (Sun): Railway Ramble 2

for Nature Society (Singapore) members only

Led by Rehan Yusof, this ramble will explore the greenery and buildings along the historic railway track near Alexandra Hospital including the traditional mosque at Jalan Hang Jebat, colonial bungalows at Portsdown Road, early Housing Board flats at Tanglin and the green belt at Holland and Bukit Timah roads. We expect to see many interesting flora and fauna. NSS has done up a conservation proposal to turn this railway track into an eco-heritage or green corridor for nature and recreation.

Registration: Mandatory as there is a limit to the number of participants. Email Benjamin Ho at benhojw@gmail.com with your membership number to register. Details will be given after registration confirmation.

Website: http://www.nss.org.sg
Contact: email contact@nss.org.sg or call 6741 2036.

10 Oct (Sun): Mangrove walk at Sungei Buloh

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

Suitable for young children.

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

More about the Sungei Buloh Wetland Reserve on the wildsingapore website and Sungei Buloh Wetland Reserve website. This walk is conducted by the volunteer guides of NParks' Sungei Buloh Wetland Reserve and is held every Sunday morning, subject to availability of guides.

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

10 Oct (Sun): Balik Kampung at Bottle Tree Park

A one-day carnival with these celebration highlights

• Reduce carbon, reduce waste
- Garbage enzyme making workshop
- Home composting workshop
- Urban farming activities

• Green and carbon-less eating
- Cooking with herbs workshop
- Multiple plant-based food stalls for all taste buds

• Breathe in oxygen, breathe out happiness
- Outdoor yoga sessions
- Nature appreciation walks

• Carbon-free time with family and friends
- Outdoor picnics
- Movie screening
- Adopt a family farm
- Environmental themed carnival

• Carbon-free creativity
- Children arts session

WHY CELEBRATE?

Down with CO2!
Join us on the 10th of October 2010 (10.10.10) to play your part in cutting down on carbon dioxide (CO2). Let us start our actions locally, at home in Singapore, to make our first change today.

Globally, with the continual increase of CO2 concentration day after day, we have to make a difference now. As part of a larger event mooted first by 10:10global.org and later adopted by the 350.org, this Global Work Party emphasizes on everyone’s cumulative contributions to cut carbon dioxide by 10% starting 2010.

By acting together around the world, wherever one is, the local actions in your city or community will gather to produce global ripples of change to improve the climate.

This event is facilitated by Ground-Up Initiative (GUI) a non-profit organization.

Time: 8.30am-4pm
Location: Bottle Tree Park, 81 Lorong Chencharu. S(769198)
Website and contact: http://carnival-bottletreepark.blogspot.com/

9 Oct (Sat): Nature walk at Bidadari

for Nature Society (Singapore) members only

Goh Si Guim leads this walk. The graves have long been exhumed from both the Christian and Muslim Cemeteries at Bidadari to make way for planned public housing. To date, no development has materialised. In their original states, these verdant cemeteries were an oasis for wildlife. Left to fallow for the last ten years since the exhumation, perhaps nature has regained some foothold. Let’s venture in to check out the plant and bird life found here.

Time: 8am
Venue: Exit B of Potong Pasir MRT station
Website: http://www.nss.org.sg
Contact: email contact@nss.org.sg or call 6741 2036.

9 Oct (Sat): Talk on "Pulau Ubin Shore is ALIVE!"

Years after the dramatic discovery of Chek Jawa, we now understand better just how fragile such ecosystem can be. But if this lovingly protected area can still reel from the impact of human activity, what chance would Ubin's more traumatised beaches have of sustaining life?

Choon Beng is one of the staff based in Ubin. Seeing how nature often uses small windows of opportunities to recover itself, he decided to see if there were any isolated patches of shorelife along the busy stretches of the island's coast.Come join us on an interesting talk by How Choon Beng, Senior Conservation Officer at Pulau Ubin, who will share his observation of the Pulau Ubin shore's life with you.

The talk is free but pre-registration is required. Please email choi_yook_sau@nparks.gov.sg by 7 Oct (Thu) 2010.

Time: 10-11.30am
Venue: Pulau Ubin, Volunteer Hub. Take a 10 min boat ride ($2.50/trip) from Changi Point Ferry Terminal (nr Changi Village) to P. Ubin and then a 10mins walk to the Volunteer Hub. More details on getting to Pulau Ubin.
Website: http://www.nparks.gov.sg/

9 Oct (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 Dinu at dinushini_williams@nparks.gov.sg or call 62738602.

Time: 9-10am
Venue: Meeting point 2, Bukit Batok Nature Park
Cost: $4 per person
Website and contact: http://www.nparks.gov.sg/

9 Oct (Sat): Wallace Education Centre Gallery walk

Learn more about our forests, from the 18th century until today and find out how you can play a part in biodiversity conservation.
Photo courtesy of Johnny WeeThis guided walk is held every second Saturday of the month.

More details about the Wallace Education Centre on the NParks website.

Please call 3 days in advance at 65545127 to register for the walk.

Time: 9.30-10.30am
Venue: Dairy Farm Nature Park, Wallace Education Centre
Website and contact: http://www.nparks.gov.sg/

9 Oct (Sat): Trees of the Fort

Embark on this adventure and discover the secret lives of our heritage trees and more!
Our nature-loving guides from The Green Volunteers will walk you through this public park that has undergone a series of historical transformation through the centuries. Although much of the original vegetation has disappeared due to these changes, active greening efforts have converted this once formidable fort into an idyllic respite from the hustle and bustle of city life amidst lush and magnificent trees. Meet the Towering Kapok, Flaky Gelam, Gnarled Madras Thorn and many more.

Learn how plants and animals have co-existed and to a certain extent become co-dependant on one another for survival. Immerse yourself in the sounds of nature orchestrated by chirping birds and shrilling cicadas as you walk along the trail.

In a vastly developed urban jungle, Fort Canning offers that unique pocket of biodiversity to appreciate the greenery within our vibrant city.

This is a free public outreach programme in the park, held every second Saturday.

Time: 4-6 pm
Venue: Meet at courtyard, opposite NParks Visitor Centre, Fort Canning Centre
Website: http://www.nparks.gov.sg/
Contact: 6332 1200 or lee_weiling@nparks.gov.sg or or visit thegreenvolunteers.blogspot.com

9 Oct (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 (Enligsh) and 4pm (Mandarin); 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

9 Oct (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.

Special Marine Fish Tour at 3.30pm.

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

9 Oct (Sat): HeART for Nature Workshop for kids

This 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.
Photo courtesy of Vanessa ChangSuitable for children aged 5 to 10 (with parental supervision).

Limited spaces available. Please call 3 days in advance at 65545127 (Mondays to Fridays) to register for the activity.

Time: 9.30am - 11.30am
Venue: Lower Pierce Reservoir Park (big shelter next to fishing ground)
Website and contact: http://www.nparks.gov.sg/

9 Oct (Sat): "Getting to Know MacRitchie" - a guided tour

Embark on this “Earth & Water” walk at MacRitchie Reservoir Park. Suitable for young children, this walk helps them to understand why forests are so amazing and their relationship with our most essential necessity – water.

This walk is held every second Saturday.

For registration, please email NParks_MAILBOX@nparks.gov.sg and put in the subject title - ATTN: MacRitchie Reservoir Park - Guided Walk. Upon registration, a confirmation email will be sent to you.

Time: 9-11am, meet 8.55am at the Amenities Centre.
Venue: Meet at amenities centre of MacRitchie
Website: http://www.nparks.gov.sg/