24-30 Oct: Highlights of the week ahead

For kids and the family

Walks in wild places

New places to explore

30 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).
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 (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

29 Oct (Sat): Creatures of the Night - a Halloween workshop for kids

Part of Trick or Treat @ HortPark, find out who stirs, what goes 'bump', and other sounds you hear in our forest at night. Embark on this special Halloween guided nature walk from HortPark to Kent Ridge Park and observe native creatures of the night.

Suitable for kids 5-10 years. This event is led by Cicada Tree Eco Place.

Registration is on a first-come, first-served basis and closes 5 days before the programme. Event goes ahead with a minimum of 15 participants. Contact the HortPark Visitor Services Counter at 6471-5601 or NPARKS-HortPark@nparks.gov.sg

Time: 7-9pm
Venue: Hands-on House at HortPark.

Cost: $25 per child.
Website and contact: http://www.nparks.gov.sg/

29 Oct (Sat): Botanical Wonders of MacRitchie

Learn more about our natural heritage and treasures! Come on down to MacRitchie Reservoir Park and learn about our silent giants - the trees!

This guided walk is held every last Saturday.

For registration enquiries, please contact Ms Mardiah Effendi Mardiah_Effendi@nparks.gov.sg

Time: 9-10.30am
Meeting point: Amenities Centre. A minimum of 10 persons is required for the guided walk to commence. In case of bad weather, the guided walk will be cancelled one hour before the schedule time.
Cost: $60 per group (maximum 15 pax) or $4 per person.
Website and contact: http://www.nparks.gov.sg/

29 Oct (Sat): Birdwatching @ Admiralty Park with NParks

The early bird catches the worm. Come and join us for a serene morning birdwatching at this free session.

To register call 62738602 or email toh_yuet_hsin@nparks.gov.sg. Limited to a maximum of 15 people.

Time: 7.30-9.30am
Venue: Admiralty Park, meet outside Sakura Restaurant.
Website: http://www.nparks.gov.sg/

29 Oct (Sat): HortPark Butterfly Garden guided tour

HortPark's Butterfly Garden is a 150-sqm landscaped theme garden comprising an enclosure and an outdoor garden. Providing a visual feast of tropical plants and nearly 20 species of native butterflies, the Butterfly Garden enables visitors to learn about the different stages of metamorphosis from egg to caterpillar into butterfly. Within the enclosure, visitors are greeted with an up close and personal encounter with these flying jewels and can observe how pupae emerge into adult butterflies before taking their maiden flight.

The Butterfly Garden also serves as an experimental garden for National Parks Board to work on a Butterfly Species Recovery Programme to research on suitable nectar and host plants for breeding a variety of butterfly species, including locally extinct species such as Clipper (Parthenos sylvia) and Common Sergeant (Athyma perius).

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 free and is held every last Saturday of the month.

Time: 9-11am, please gather at the Butterfly Garden for the tour
Website: http://www.nparks.gov.sg/
Contact: 6471 5601

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

26 Oct (Wed): Chek Jawa Walk with Cicada Tree Eco Place

We go on the extensive boardwalk at Chek Jawa on Pulau Ubin. Here we shall see a diversity of unique flora and fauna. At low tide, exposed seaweeds used to be collected by locals to feed their pigs. From the mangroves, Attap Palm leaves were harvested for thatching while durable Nibong Palm trunks were used to build kelongs. The shallow sea here was also a rich hunting ground. Many natural resources were depended upon, and used in sustainable ways by the kampong folk who lived at Chek Jawa.

Note: This activity will be on the boardwalk, walking on mudflats is not allowed.

Pre-registration and pre-payment is required. To register email Celine Low at contact@cicadatree.org.sg giving participants' names, ages and a mobile no.

Time: 3-6pm
Cost: $15 per person (adult or child), excluding bumboat ride and mini-bus ride to Chek Jawa. The bumboat ride is $2.50 per person one way. The mini-bus ride is $4 return per person to and from the main village. Minimum 20 pax for walk to go ahead.

Website: http://www.cicadatree.org.sg

17-23 Oct: Highlights of the week ahead

For kids and the family

Walks in wild places

New places to explore

23 Oct (Sun): Birdwatching at Kranji Marshes

From the meeting place, a hired bus will ferry us to our destination. We begin with a pleasant stroll along a countryside road to the Kranji Marshes where we will continue our walk along the PUB bund. The marsh is designated by URA as a Nature Park and is currently adopted by NSS under 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, Grey-headed Fish Eagle and more.

This walk is open to the public. Registration by 14 Oct on the NSS website. Limited to a maximum of 20 persons.

Time: 7.45am to 11.00am. Meet at Kranji Dam Carpark B near the Tidal Gates of Kranji Reservoir (off Kranji Way). Reachable by Bus 925 from Kranji MRT station.
Website: http://www.nss.org.sg/
Contact: email contact@nss.org.sg or call 6741 2036.

23 Oct (Sun): Birdwatching @ Admiralty Park

Smell the fresh morning air and enjoy the chirping of birds in the wild! Come and join us for a birdwatching session with Nature Society's experienced guide, Hang Chong.

To register email raem_tan@nparks.gov.sg.

Time: 7-9am
Venue: Admiralty Park, meet outside Sakura Restaurant.
Website: http://www.nparks.gov.sg/

23 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.
For more details see the Purple Mangroves blog.

Time: 11.30am-12.30pm
Venue: Sungei Buloh Wetland Reserve, meet at the Information Counter at the Visitor CentreEntry 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/

23 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.

Free Mandarin guided walk 9.30-11.30am, meet at the Visitor Centre. Pre-register by calling 67941401, a minimum of 5 participants needed to go ahead with the tour. Limited to maximum 15 participants.

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

22 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)
Venue: Register at Singapore Botanic Gardens Visitor Centre before the tour starts.
Website: http://www.nparks.gov.sg/
Contact: Visitor Services 6471 7361

22 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 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

22 Oct (Sat): Birdwatching at Sungei Buloh Wetland Reserve

Come visit Sungei Buloh Wetland Reserve! There will be a bird watching station at the main hide from 9am to 12pm. Staff and volunteers of SBWR will assist in bird identification and spotting.
Kids looking at shorebirds at Sungei Buloh

Time: 9am-12noon
Venue: Sungei Buloh Wetland Reserve
Entry charges: While the event is free, admission fees to the Reserve apply: $1 per adult, 50cents per child/student/senior citizen.
Website: http://www.sbwr.org.sg/
Contact: info@sbwr.org.sg or call 6794 1401

21 Oct (Fri): Kids visit the Raffles Museum with Cicada Tree Eco Place

Join this guided tour of the museum, highlighting Singapore's incredibly rich biodiversity of fauna and flora, our tropical habitats, conservation issues and animals of Southeast Asia and more! With a special feature on Singapore’s bats.
Although Cicada Tree Eco-Place usually promotes the study and appreciation of living things and living ecosystems, we think that a visit to this museum of dead and preserved animals will give invaluable insights on native biodiversity, many of which are rare or already locally extinct.

Pre-registration is required. Email Celine Low at contact@cicadatree.org.sg giving participants' names, ages and a mobile no.

Time: 9-11 am
Venue: Raffles Museum of Biodiversity Research Department of Biological Sciences
Faculty of Science National University of Singapore 6 Science Drive 2 Blk S6, #03-01 Singapore 117546 how to get there.
Cost: $15 per kid (max. 20 kids and max. 1 adult accompanying each kid, due to limited gallery space)
Website: http://www.cicadatree.org.sg

10-16 Oct: Highlights of the week ahead

For kids and the family

Walks in wild places

For Nature Society (Singapore) members only

Other events

New places to explore

16 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 (Sun): Birdwatching at Semakau Landfill

for Nature Society (Singapore) members only

October is a good time to visit Semakau for migratory birds and migrant surprises. Resident attractions are the Great-billed Heron, Pacific Egret, Malaysian Plover, etc. It is also possible to catch sightings of rare migrants such as the Chinese Egret, Ashy Drongo, etc

Non-refundable $28 fee for boat and administration. Send your cheque to the NSS office before 2 Oct 2011 with the All Purpose Form. Number of persons for this trip: 11, 22 or 33. Email Hang Chong hangchong@gmail.com to register. 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-2pm. 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.

16 Oct (Sun): Bird Watching at Pulau Ubin with NParks

Come and take a walk at the rustic trails in the early morning to catch some bird's life and enjoy the kampung air

Register online, booking is open until 14 Oct for a maximum of 15 persons.

Time: 7-9am
Venue: Meet at Pulau Ubin Nature Gallery (at the end of Pulau Ubin Jetty). More on how to get to Pulau Ubin.
Contact: Pulau Ubin hotline - 65424108
Website: http://www.nparks.gov.sg/

16 Oct (Sun): Conference on "Nature Conservation for a Sustainable Singapore" by Nature Society (Singapore)

It has been more than two years since the revised edition of “The Red Data Book” (2008) was published. This book highlights the endangered plants and wildlife in Singapore. The aim of this Nature Society’s conference is to provide a forum for conservation proponents and wildlife experts from all sectors of the community. Our speakers will address the status of Singapore’s biodiversity, and the effects of habitat loss, degradation and fragmentation on a range of flora and fauna, with a focus mainly on nature areas outside the Nature Reserves. They will also address the needs of species that have healthy numbers currently, but are vulnerable to disturbances. Appropriate ideas, plans and solutions that will help prevent or mitigate losses will be explored and analysed --- to ultimately save our remaining nature areas and their biodiversity. We invite you to discuss these topics and more with our experts. You will also get to meet our Guest-of-Honour and Immediate Past President Dr Geh Min. More details on conference timetable (pdf) and abstracts of presentation topics (doc) and speaker profiles.

Online registration

Time: 8am-7pm.
Venue: Swissotel Merchant Court Hotel, Ballroom, 20 Merchant Road, Singapore.
Cost: $30 for members; $20 for students from tertiary institutions, polytechnics and junior colleges; and $50 for non-members.
Dress code: Smart Casual
Website and contact: http://www.nss.org.sg/ and contact@nss.org.sg or call: 6741-2036.

15 Oct (Sat): Public Bird Census Programme at Sungei Buloh Wetland Reserve

Sungei Buloh is conducting introductory bird census programme to showcase the birds of Sungei Buloh Wetland Reserve and its bird monitoring programme. Join us to have a first-hand experience on bird watching and research work. Bring along a hat, binoculars and wear comfortable walking shoes and clothing. Join us for a fun time bird watching and learning about the migratory birds at SBWR!

Register with mendis_tan@nparks.gov.sg as soon as possible to avoid disappointment. There is a limit of 40 participants (first come first serve via email only).

Time: 9.30am-12.30pm, registration starts at 9.15am.
Venue: Sungei Buloh Wetland Reserve
Entry charges: While the event 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

15 Oct (Sat): Forest of Elders at Yishun Park

Join us at this nature walk to learn about the beautiful and important forest trees in the Dipterocarp Arboretum of Yishun Park. Find out how the fauna life exists together with these giants in the forest!

To register, please contact Ms Nanthini at nanthini_elamgovan@nparks.gov.sg or call 62738602.

Time: 9-10am
Venue: Yishun Park Amphitheatre
Cost: $4 per person
Wesbite: http://www.nparks.gov.sg/

15 Oct (Sat): A Trail Of Colours - guided tour for kids

Our beautiful garden would not be complete without the colourful blooms! In this tour, children will be able to learn about colours and the different parts and function of a flower.

Suitable for children in K1 - P6 levels

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

Time: 10-11am
Venue: Jacob Ballas Children's Garden, Bukit Timah Core of the Singapore Botanic Gardens.
Fee: $6 per child and $6 per accompanying adult
Website: http://www.sbg.org.sg
Contact: 64719961 or nparks_sbg_edu@nparks.gov.sg

15 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

15 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 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

15 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 8 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/

15 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. Call 6554 5127 (Mon-Fri).

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 Oct (Sat): NSS Kids’ Fun at the Singapore Botanic Gardens

NSS President Dr Shawn Lum, who is a botanist by training, will personally guide us on an intriguing plant tour of the world-acclaimed Singapore Botanic Gardens. Learn the names and functions of some of the commoner trees and plants that help green our surroundings. This is also a great opportunity to meet our President and hear his views on issues like habitat loss and conservation.

Please register your children (4 to 12 years old) with Gloria Seow at gloria_seow@yahoo.com, stating their names and ages, if they are NSS members or not, and let us have your mobile number. A fee of $5 per child (member) or $10 per child (non-member) will be collected on the spot. Parents / caregivers are encouraged to join in at no charge. Details will be emailed to those who sign up. This event is open to the public.

Time: 8-10am
Venue: Singapore Botanic Gardens
Website: http://www.nss.org.sg/
Contact: email contact@nss.org.sg or call 6741 2036.

15 Oct (Sat): Birdwatching at Labrador Nature Reserve

Come and catch the birds' life in the cool morning breeze.

Time: 7.30-9.30 am
Venue: Meet at Information kiosk, Carpark C Labrador Nature Reserve
Contact: 62738602 or email toh_yuet_hsin@nparks.gov.sg
Website: http://www.nparks.gov.sg/

15 Oct (Sat): Forest Feathers

In Singapore, a day never passes without seeing a sparrow or a mynah. But there’s more than those common birds around! Join us on a feathered forest adventure as our avid birdwatchers bring you on a showcase of our forest birds from the majestic White-Bellied Sea Eagle to the minute Crimson Sunbird in their natural setting. You may even be able to pick up a trick or two on how to spot these birds on your own!

Online registration.

Time: 7-9am
Venue: Meet Ramakrishnan at Dairy Farm Nature Park Carpark B Shelter
Website and contact: http://www.nparks.gov.sg/

3-9 Oct: Highlights of the week ahead

For kids and the family

Walks in our wild places

for Nature Society (Singapore) members only

9 Oct (Sun): Birdwatching at Sungei Buloh Wetland Reserve

for Nature Society (Singapore) members only

Lim Kim Chuah leads the walk. Sungei Buloh Wetland Reserve is a good place to study and learn how to identify the many migratory birds that winter here. For novice birdwatchers, come and let the expert show you how to separate a plover from a sandpiper, or a Marsh Sandpiper from the Greenshank. Differences between the birds may be subtle but once the differences are pointed out, you'll be surprised to see that it is not so difficult after all. And for wader enthusiasts who have recently attended the Advanced Waders Workshop, you can put your new skills into practice! For members only.

Time: 7.30am to 11.00am. Meet at the ticket counter of the Reserve, off Neo Tiew Crescent.
Website: http://www.nss.org.sg/
Contact: email contact@nss.org.sg or call 6741 2036.

9 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

8 Oct (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.
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: 10.30am - 11.30am
Venue: Dairy Farm Nature Park- Wallace Education Centre
Website and contact: http://www.nparks.gov.sg/

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

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 email your name, contact number and total no. of participants to Yvonne yvonne_chee@nparks.gov.sg.

Registration closes 3 days before the event. The walk will only take place with a minimum of 15 persons.

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

8 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 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

8 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.

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

8 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

8 Oct (Sat): Wallace Education Centre Gallery walk

Join our volunteers for a Nature Gallery walk in Wallace Education  Centre to learn about what have been done to protect our forest since  the mid-18th Century. Through engaging show and tell stations, you will  get to know more about our natural history and how you can play a part  in biodiversity conservation. Suitable for adults and family groups with  children 12 years and above.
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/

8 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

8 Oct (Sat): A walk with your neighbours - the macaques of Bukit Timah

The long-tailed macaques are the most conspicuous animals at Bukit Timah Nature Reserve. Although commonly seen, they are very misunderstood. Few seeing them realise anything about the social world these monkeys live in. They have kin networks, power struggles, friends, foes, and an otherwise complex social network. In many ways, they provide a mirror of our own sociality.

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.


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

8 Oct (Sat): Birdwatching at Sungei Buloh Wetland Reserve

Come visit Sungei Buloh Wetland Reserve! There will be a bird watching station at the main hide from 9am to 12pm. Staff and volunteers of SBWR will assist in bird identification and spotting.
Kids looking at shorebirds at Sungei Buloh

Time: 9am-12noon
Venue: Sungei Buloh Wetland Reserve
Entry charges: While the event is free, admission fees to the Reserve apply: $1 per adult, 50cents per child/student/senior citizen.
Website: http://www.sbwr.org.sg/
Contact: info@sbwr.org.sg or call 6794 1401

26 Sep - 2 Oct: Highlights of the week ahead

For kids and the family


Walks in wild places

Talks and films this week
  • 28 Sep (Wed): FREE screening of "The Cove" Understanding The World's Saddest Dolphins
  • Also, some seminars this week on Ivory Trade, Tigers and Wildlife rescue in Cambodia. More details on Habitatnews

2 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

2 Oct (Sun): Bird Watching at Pulau Ubin with NParks

Come and take a walk at the rustic trails in the early morning to catch some bird's life and enjoy the kampung air

Register online, booking is open until 30 Sep 2011 for a maximum of 15 persons.

Time: 7-9am
Venue: Meet at Pulau Ubin Nature Gallery (at the end of Pulau Ubin Jetty). More on how to get to Pulau Ubin.
Contact: Pulau Ubin hotline - 65424108
Website: http://www.nparks.gov.sg/

1 Oct (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.
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 - 10.30am
Venue: Lower Peirce Reservoir Park (big shelter next to fishing ground)
Website and contact: http://www.nparks.gov.sg/

1 Oct (Sat): Roots, Shoots and Fruits! at Admiralty Park

The Plant Kingdom is made up of a large variety of plants that use different methods according to the habitats they thrive in for survival. This guided walk highlights how different plants have adapted to the environment to allow successful growth and reproduction in Admiralty Park.

To register, please contact Mr Tan at raem_tan@nparks.gov.sg.

Guided tour will go ahead once 15 persons sign up.

Time: 9-10am
Venue: Amphitheatre, Admiralty Park
Cost: $4 per person
Website and contact: http://www.nparks.gov.sg/

1 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 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

1 Oct (Sat): Forest Feathers

In Singapore, a day never passes without seeing a sparrow or a mynah. But there’s more than those common birds around! Join us on a feathered forest adventure as our avid birdwatchers bring you on a showcase of our forest birds from the majestic White-Bellied Sea Eagle to the minute Crimson Sunbird in their natural setting. You may even be able to pick up a trick or two on how to spot these birds on your own!

Online registration.

Time: 7-9am
Venue: Meet Ramakrishnan at Dairy Farm Nature Park Carpark B Shelter
Website and contact: http://www.nparks.gov.sg/