24-30 Jun: Highlights of the week ahead

Haze Check: Please check with the original organisers to see if the scheduled events will go ahead in view of the haze conditions.

For kids and the family

Walks in wild places

Make a wild difference


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

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

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

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

More in the art in the wetlands blog.

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

30 Jun (Sun): Love MacRitchie Walk with Cicada Tree Eco Place

FREE public guided nature walks to the Central Catchment Nature Reserve at Venus Drive (MacRitchie) The MacRitchie Forest Trail at Venus Drive meanders along the banks of a crystal-clear forest stream that is full of freshwater life. Here live dragons and damsels, freshwater crabs and prawns, the Puff-faced Watersnake, Pygmy Halfbeak and Saddle Barb.
Photo by Russel Low

Look out, too, for the Green Crested Lizard, Red-bellied Squirrel, Long-tailed Macaque, Blue-rumped Parrot and Colugo. Walk in the cool shade of old trees. Feel the peace that only a rainforest can give.

The government recently announced, in its White Paper, its intention to build a Cross Island MRT Line through this forest. If implemented, this shall most certainly destroy large tracts of what remains of our rainforest ecosystem, as well as endanger the unique wildlife living in it.

Come with us, and learn more about this rainforest. Feel our natural heritage at risk.

The trail here is a dirt path which is relatively level and suitable for children, the elderly and the physically-challenged. Be prepared for some mud.

This walk is open to the public but registration is required as spaces are limited.

To register, please email Celine Low at contact@cicadatree.org.sg giving participants' names, ages and a mobile no.

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

Time: 8.30-11.30am
Website: http://www.cicadatree.org.sg/

29 Jun (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.
Photo from the Butterflies of Singapore blog:
Launch of the Butterfly Garden at Hort Park.
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 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: 9.30am 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

29 Jun (Sat): Fun kids talk on "Plant Parts"

Just as each of the organs of our body performs specific roles, each part of a plant, such as roots, stem, leaves, flowers and fruits, has its special function too! Join us for this fun activity where children can ‘create’ their own plant, while recognising the mains parts of plants and understanding their different functions.

For children 5-12 years.

Jiahui is a manager from the National Parks Board. She enjoys gardening and is passionate about spreading her love for green and nature to the public, to let them appreciate the wonderful world of plants.

This talk is free and registration is not required.

Time: 1.30-2.30pm
Venue: Bukit Batok Public Library
Website: http://nparks.gov.sg/
Contact: nparks_urban_gardening@nparks.gov.sg.

29 Jun (Sat): Help conserve our forest!

Help play a part in conserving our forests by participating in our invasive species removal programme. You will help improve the quality of the habitat around the Sembcorp Forest of Giants, so join us if you are keen to make a change!

Individuals, families and organised groups such as schools and corporate companies are welcome to participate.

This event is part of the Connecting with Nature programme at the Southern Ridges. The event is free but pre-registration is required and is on a first-come-first-served basis. Registrations close 1 week before each programme. All programmes will only commence with a minimum of 15 participants. To register please contact HortPark Visitor Services at 6471-5601 or NPARKS_HortPark@nparks.gov.sg

Time: 9-11am
Meeting point: Telok Blangah Hill Park, Multi-purpose plaza
Website and contact: http://www.nparks.gov.sg/

29 Jun (Sat): Horseshoe Crab Rescue and Research

Open to the public

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

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

Time: 7-11am, meet at the extension of Kranji Road at the junction with Kranji Loop. Take bus 925 from Kranji MRT station and alight at the Chinese temple along Kranji Loop, cross the road and look for the nameless track that starts beside Leong Soon Pte Ltd (251 Kranji Road).
Website: http://www.nss.org.sg/
Contact: email contact@nss.org.sg or call 6741 2036.

27 Jun (Thu): Sara Goes To Supermarket Garden - a guided tour for kids

Sara, the Botanicosaurus is back! This time Sara, with her siblings and friends, visit the Supermarket Garden in the Jacob Ballas Children’s Garden. Join Sara to learn fascinating facts and hear interesting stories about the banana, peanut, soya bean, sugarcane, sweet potato and many more yummy fruits and vegetables in this special garden. Alongside learning about plants which you can eat, pick up tips on being a nutritional winner by eating delicious greens to stay strong and healthy.

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")

Suitable for children in K1 - P6 levels, 5-12 years.

Time: 10-11am
Venue: Jacob Ballas Children's Garden, Bukit Timah Core of the Singapore Botanic Gardens
Fee: $9 per child (includes $3 “Sara goes to the Supermarket Garden” workbook) and $6 per accompanying adult
Website: http://www.sbg.org.sg
Contact: 64719961 or nparks_sbg_edu@nparks.gov.sg

26 Jun (Wed): Nature Adventure@SBWR


Calling all families! Join in our special free guided walk on 26 June from 9.30am to 12.30pm for an unforgettable experience at Sungei Buloh Wetland Reserve. This guided tour is suitable for children ages 3 onwards and of course, adults too.

This guided tour is for families only. The tour is free but admission charges apply.

Pre-registration required on a first come first served basis with g_shila_kumari@nparks.gov.sg. Max number of persons: 30.


Time: 9.30am to 12.30pm
Venue: Sungei Buloh Wetland Reserve Visitor Centre
Attire: light comfortable clothing, comfortable walking shoes, insect repellent

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

24 Jun (Mon): Discover Pond Life - a guided tour for kids

How do aquatic plants survive when they are submerged in water? What are the special characteristics that aquatic plants have which enable them to float on water surface? Aquatic plants are also habitats to many animals. Discover the fascinating pond ecology and be introduced to food chains and the ecosystem. You will be amazed by the many different types of aquatic plants and animals that could be found in the ponds.

Suitable for children in K1 – P6 levels.

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

Time: 10-11am
Cost: $6 per child and $6 per accompanying adult
Venue: Botany Centre, Tanglin Core of the Singapore Botanic Gardens
Website: http://www.nparks.gov.sg/
Contact: 6465 0196 and 6471 9961

17-23 Jun: HIghlights of the week ahead

For kids and the family

Wondering what to do with the kids during the school holidays? Check out the highlights of exciting nature activities specially for kids lined up for June school holidays! And MORE fun school holiday activities to discover and enjoy Singapore's biodiversity!


Walks in wild places

23 Jun (Sun): Mandarin guided tour at Sungei Buloh

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

Suitable for young children.

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

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

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

22 Jun (Sat): "A Forest No Less" in Bukit Batok Nature Park

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

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

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

22 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: 9.30am 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 Jun (Sat): Fun walk along the Southern Ridges

Take your family on a leisurely stroll through the Southern Ridges, a soothing sanctuary of greenery that is steeped in history and home to some of nature's greatest gifts of flora and fauna.
Highlights of the free tour include the Henderson Waves, Sembcorp Forest of Giants, Forest Walk and Singing Forest.

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

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

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

10-16 Jun: Highlights of the week ahead

For kids and the family
Wondering what to do with the kids during the school holidays? Check out the highlights of exciting nature activities specially for kids lined up for June school holidays! And MORE fun school holiday activities to discover and enjoy Singapore's biodiversity!

Making a wild difference

Walks in wild places

Wild talk

16 Jun (Sun): Butterfly walk at Bukit Panjang Park

for Nature Society (Singapore) members only

Located on a hill top, Bukit Panjang has a mix of parkland, grassland and secondary forest butterflies. The rare Royal Assyrian was spotted here recently. We will check out what other rarities live in this seldom-visited nature area.

NSS Kids attending the walk with their parents will have a dedicated kids guide.

Time: 9.30 am
Venue: Meet Simon Chan at the community garden in Bukit Panjang Park, just behind the Eco Sanctuary show flats at the intersection of Chestnut Avenue and Petir Road.
Website: http://www.nss.org.sg/
Contact: email contact@nss.org.sg or call 6741 2036. 

16 Jun (Sun): Birdwatching at Kranji Marshes with Nature Society (Singapore)

Open to the public but children below 12 are not allowed for safety reasons.
Photo by Tsang KCFrom the meeting point, a hired bus will ferry us to our destination. We begin with a pleasant stroll along a countryside road to the Kranji Marshes where we will continue our walk along the PUB Bund. The marsh is designated by URA as a Nature Park and is currently adopted by NSS under PUB's ABC Waters Programme. Birding highlights here include the Red-wattled Lapwing, Purple Swamphen, Rusty-breasted Cuckoo, White-browed Crake, Changeable Hawk Eagle, Grey-headed Fish Eagle and more.

Register on the NSS website by 3 May 2013. A registration form will then be sent to you. Max: 20 pax.

Time: 7.45-11am
Venue: Meet at Kranji Dam Carpark near the Tidal Gates of Kranji Reservoir (off Kranji Way). Reachable by Bus 925 from Kranji MRT Station. If you are driving (from SLE or Kranji MRT Stn), follow Kranji Way heading towards Sg Buloh Wetland Reserve, and you will pass Sg Kadut Industrial Est and Kranji Reservoir before reaching Carpark B.  
Website: http://www.nss.org.sg 
Contact: email contact@nss.org.sg or call 6741 2036.

16 Jun (Sun): Love MacRitchie walk by Cicada Tree Eco Place

FREE public guided nature walks to the Central Catchment Nature Reserve at Venus Drive (MacRitchie) The MacRitchie Forest Trail at Venus Drive meanders along the banks of a crystal-clear forest stream that is full of freshwater life. Here live dragons and damsels, freshwater crabs and prawns, the Puff-faced Watersnake, Pygmy Halfbeak and Saddle Barb.
Photo by Russel Low

Look out, too, for the Green Crested Lizard, Red-bellied Squirrel, Long-tailed Macaque, Blue-rumped Parrot and Colugo. Walk in the cool shade of old trees. Feel the peace that only a rainforest can give.

The government recently announced, in its White Paper, its intention to build a Cross Island MRT Line through this forest. If implemented, this shall most certainly destroy large tracts of what remains of our rainforest ecosystem, as well as endanger the unique wildlife living in it.

Come with us, and learn more about this rainforest. Feel our natural heritage at risk.

The trail here is a dirt path which is relatively level and suitable for children, the elderly and the physically-challenged. Be prepared for some mud.

This walk is open to the public but registration is required as spaces are limited.

To register, please email Celine Low at contact@cicadatree.org.sg giving participants' names, ages and a mobile no.

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

Time: 8.30-11.30am
Website: http://www.cicadatree.org.sg/

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

Experience Ubin's wonderful nature through your senses along our Sensory Trail.
Fragrant Pandan
This is an excellent introduction to the rustic and natural character of the island. You will be able to touch, see or smell fruit trees, spices and herbs for cooking, plants used in traditional medicine and native plants of the mangrove forest.

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

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

15 Jun (Sat): Race Against Time – Science behind a Botanic Garden Tour

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

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

This tour is conducted every third Saturday of the month. Registration 15 minutes before the tour starts, and is on a first-come-first-served basis at the Green Pavilion, Botany Centre. Limited to 20 participants.

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

15 Jun (Sat): National Orchid Garden guided tour

Explore the beauty and diversity of orchids in the National Orchid Garden, Singapore Botanic Gardens. Over 1000 species and 2,000 hybrids are now found in the Gardens' collection, with about 600 species and hybrids on display. Every year, more vibrant and enduring hybrids are added on
Full map at http://www.sbg.org.sg/map_nog.htm

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

A tour in Mandarin is also conducted at 4pm.

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

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

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

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

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

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

Sign up on this online form.

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

15 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: 9.30am 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 Jun (Sat): Workshop for kids - Oooo...owls!

Who goes "hoo-hoo" in our forests at night? Why do we think they are so wise? What "special powers" do they have? Do they exist here in Singapore?

Discover more about these beautiful nocturnal birds, and learn to make an owl hanging poster at the end of the session.

Suitable for kids 5-10 years.

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

Time: 9-11am
Venue: HortPark, Greenhouse workshop area
Cost: $25 per child.
Website and contact: http://www.nparks.gov.sg/

15 Jun (Sat): Horseshoe Crab Rescue and Research

Open to the public

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

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

Time: 7-10am, meet at the extension of Kranji Road at the junction with Kranji Loop. Take bus 925 from Kranji MRT station and alight at the Chinese temple along Kranji Loop, cross the road and look for the nameless track that starts beside Leong Soon Pte Ltd (251 Kranji Road).
Website: http://www.nss.org.sg/
Contact: email contact@nss.org.sg or call 6741 2036.

13 Jun (Thu): Young Mathematician of the Garden

How many petals are there on a flower? Count the number of leaflets on a leaf. Get introduced to addition, subtraction, and many more mathematical skills that you can apply to plants. Be a young Mathematician of the Garden in this guided tour and have fun learning about Maths and Plants.

Suitable for children in P3 – P6 levels.

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

Time: 10-11am
Cost: $6 per child and $6 per accompanying parent
Venue: Jacob Ballas Children’s Garden, Bukit Timah Core of the Singapore Botanic Gardens
Website: http://www.nparks.gov.sg/

13 Jun (Thu): Fun with Maths & Plants!

Have fun being a little Mathematician and discover plants at the same time! Learn basic math concepts through colours, shapes, sizes and numbers. Practice your skills using leaves, flowers and other plant parts. You will discover that Mathematics is fun and interesting!

Suitable for children in K1 – P2 levels.

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

Time: 10-11am
Cost: $6 per child and $6 per accompanying parent
Venue: Jacob Ballas Children’s Garden, Bukit Timah Core of the Singapore Botanic Gardens
Website: http://www.nparks.gov.sg/

12 Jun (Wed): Talk on "Singapore’s Underwater Meadows" by Dr. Len McKenzie

Seagrass habitats are one of the most productive ecosystems on earth but few people know what they are and how they are important to the health and functioning of other marine ecosystems and human well-being. In this talk, Dr. Len McKenzie covers the seagrass basics, but also talks about why regular seagrass monitoring is important and how monitoring seagrass in Singapore is contributing to global effort in understanding changes in seagrass ecosystems.
TeamSeagrass monitors seagrasses in Singapore regularly!
Dr. Len McKenzie is a Principal Researcher with TropWATER (James Cook University) and Seagrass-Watch Program Leader. He is also the Task Leader of the Reef Rescue Marine Monitoring Program – Intertidal Seagrass Monitoring and project leader for a series of projects involving the assessment and sustainable use of coastal fisheries habitats. Len has over 20 years experience as a researcher on seagrass ecology, assessment and fisheries habitats. This includes experience within Australia and internationally in seagrass research, resource mapping/assessment and biodiversity.
Dr Len with TeamSeagrass at Cyrene Reef
He has provided information on seagrass communities that has been vital in management of seagrass resources of the Great Barrier Reef and at the state, national and international levels. He has also advised on fishers and coastal resource-use issues for managers, fishing organisations, conservation and community groups. Len is also the Secretary of the World Seagrass Association.

The talk is free but pre-registration is required, online at http://bit.ly/lmckenzie

Time: 7-8.30pm
Venue: Function Hall, Botany Centre, Level 1, Singapore Botanic Gardens map
Contact: Rachel Lim at lim_li-feng@nparks.gov.sg

3-9 Jun: Highlights of the week ahead

For kids and the family
Wondering what to do with the kids during the school holidays? Check out the highlights of exciting nature activities specially for kids lined up for June school holidays! And MORE fun school holiday activities to discover and enjoy Singapore's biodiversity!

Walks in wild places


Other wild happenings


For Nature Society (Singapore) members only



9 Jun (Sun): Birdwatching at Pulau Ubin with Nature Society (Singapore)

for Nature Society (Singapore) members only

Rustic Pulau Ubin is an island that never fails to surprise, always with new things waiting to be discovered. Willie will take you through the rural areas to look for island specialities such as the Red Junglefowl, Oriental Pied Hornbill and the globally endangered Straw-headed Bulbul. NSS Kids attending the walk with their parents will have a dedicated kids guide.

Time: 7.30-11.30 am
Venue: Meet Willie at Changi Jetty, where we will take a bumboat to Pulau Ubin. The fare is $2.50 person (one-way) payable to the boatman.
Website: http://www.nss.org.sg/
Contact: email contact@nss.org.sg or call 6741 2036. 

9 Jun (Sun): Butterfly Walk at Pasir Ris Park

for Nature Society (Singapore) members only

Meet Gan Cheong Weei at 9.30 am at Carpark C towards the end of Pasir Ris Green. We will explore the six hectares of mangroves at Pasir Ris Park and its surrounding vegetation, home to over 60 butterfly species. More than 15 of these beauties are considered rare. The nearby Kitchen Garden is also a huge draw for the Crow and Tiger butterflies.

NSS Kids attending the walk with their parents will have a dedicated kids guide.

Time: 9.30 am
Venue: Carpark C towards the end of Pasir Ris Green
Website: http://www.nss.org.sg/
Contact: email contact@nss.org.sg or call 6741 2036. 

8 Jun (Sat): Discover Pond Life - a guided tour for kids

How do aquatic plants survive when they are submerged in water? What are the special characteristics that aquatic plants have which enable them to float on water surface? Aquatic plants are also habitats to many animals. Discover the fascinating pond ecology and be introduced to food chains and the ecosystem. You will be amazed by the many different types of aquatic plants and animals that could be found in the ponds.

Suitable for children in K1 – P6 levels.

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

Time: 10-11am
Cost: $6 per child and $6 per accompanying adult
Venue: Botany Centre, Tanglin Core of the Singapore Botanic Gardens
Website: http://www.nparks.gov.sg/
Contact: 6465 0196 and 6471 9961

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

The long-tailed macaques at Bukit Timah Nature Reserve are commonly seen, but often misunderstood. Few know about the social world of these monkeys. They have family members, power struggles, friends, foes, and a complex social network. In many ways, they mirror our own social life!
If you would like to learn more about your community and the interesting world of your neighbouring macaques at Bukit Timah, please join our walk, led by experts in these unique creatures.

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

This walk is held every second Saturday of the month.

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

8 Jun (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 8 years (with parental supervision).

Limited spaces available. Register online or email vanessa_chang@nparks.gov.sg

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

8 Jun (Sat): Roots, Shoots, & Fruits Guided Walk

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

To register, please email Mr Raem Tan Raem_Tan@nparks.gov.sg or Ms Eileen Chia Eileen_Chia@nparks.gov.sg A minimum of 10 participants is required per guided walk.

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

8 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 a boardwalk, under the shade of giant trees, learn about our rainforests, spot forest creatures and strange plants.

Suitable for young children.

More about the Botanic Gardens Rainforest Trail on the wildsingapore website. This walk is conducted by the volunteer guides of NPark's Singapore Botanic Gardens and is held every second Saturday of the month.

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

Time: 9am, 10am, 11am and 4pm; Register 15 minutes before the tour at the Visitor Centre.
Tour duration: One hour.
Website: http://www.sbg.org.sg/
Contact: Visitor Services, 64717361 or NPARKS_SBG_Visitor_Services@NPARKS.GOV.SG

8 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: 9.30am 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 Jun (Sat): NSS Kids’ Fun with Beautiful Butterflies at Upper Seletar Reservoir

Open to the public.


Get acquainted with the forest butterflies that call Upper Seletar Reservoir home. Passionate butterfly watchers KC and Amy Tsang will introduce us to one of their favourite butterfly playgrounds, populated with many from the Nymphalidae family: Cruiser, Malay Lacewing, Rustic, Malayan Lascar, Malay Viscount, Archduke, as well as beauties such as the Branded Imperial and Fluffy Tit from the Lycaenidae family. Attire: Do wear green, blue, brown or grey clothing, walking shoes and bring insect repellent.


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

Time: 9.30-11.30 am
Cost: $5 per child (member) or $10 per child (non-member) will be collected on the spot. Parents and caregivers are encouraged to join in at no charge.
Details will be emailed to those who sign up.
Website: http://www.nss.org.sg/
Contact: email contact@nss.org.sg or call 6741 2036. 

8 Jun (Sat): Talk on "Environmental and Cultural History of Yishun"

Open to the public.

The natural environment of Singapore has undergone tremendous changes over the past 200 years. The Yishun area has seen a full range of gambier, pineapple and rubber plantations, vegetable and fish farms, forestry and reservoir construction before becoming the thriving residential area it is today.

Join Tony O’Dempsey as he discusses how these changes have affected the natural and cultural environment of Yishun in the last 200 years.

Time: 7-8pm
Venue: Yishun Library
Website: http://www.nss.org.sg/
Contact: email contact@nss.org.sg or call 6741 2036. 

6 Jun (Thu): The Wallace Lectures "Copepods -- an introduction to the 'Insects of the Sea'" by Prof Rony Huys

What are copepods? And why do they matter?
Come for this special talk by Prof Rony Huys to find out more. Prof Rony is here for the Southern Expedition of the Mega Marine Survey.

The talk is free but registration is required online at http://tinyurl.com/ronyhuys

The Wallace Lecture Series was a series of important lectures delivered in the 1960s by well-known biologists in the then University of Malaya. These lectures stimulated discussion and encouraged the exploration of new ideas in systematics, ecology and natural heritage.

Time: 7-8.30pm
Venue: Function Hall, Botany Centre Level One, Singapore Botanic Gardens
Website and contact: http://www.nparks.gov.sg/ 

5 Jun (Wed): Storytime with Sara at Jacob Ballas Children’s Garden

Join us for a fun-filled storytelling session, specially designed for little ones. Children will explore Jacob Ballas Children’s Garden with Sara the Botanicosaurus and her squirrel friends, Fluff-tail and Twitchy. To conclude the programme, children will have the opportunity to get up close and personal with plants that are featured in the story, and even have the chance to rock the Suspension Bridge and play hide-and-seek in the Maze.

Suitable for children in N1 – N2 levels.

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

Time: 10-11am
Cost: $6 per child and $6 per accompanying adult.
Venue: Jacob Ballas Children’s Garden, Bukit Timah Core of the Singapore Botanic Gardens
Website: http://www.sbg.org.sg/

4 Jun (Tue): Let's Learn About Dragonflies - A guided tour for kids

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

Suitable for children in P1 – P3 levels

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

Time: 10-11.30am
Cost: $9 per child and $9 per accompanying adult
Venue: Jacob Ballas Children’s Garden, Bukit Timah Core of the Singapore Botanic Gardens
Website: http://www.nparks.gov.sg/
Contact: 6465 0196 or 6471 9961

1 Jun (Sat): Launch of "You Been to Ubin?" book

Students from the Raffles Institution (Year 5-6) have written an interactive storybook for children; which unveils the alluring flora and fauna of Pulau Ubin through an interesting plot, fun puzzles and easy-to-digest information.
Click on image for larger view.

Join them as they launch their book, "You Been to Ubin?" and share their inspiration behind it. Be entertained as the young authors bring their tales to life - straight from the book! Get into the spirit of conservation with special Guest-of-Honour, Nominated Member of Parliament (Environment), Ms Faizah Jamal.

Time: 11am-12.20pm - Launch and sale of book; 12.20-1pm - Storytelling
Venue: Programme Zone, Bishan Public Library
Website and contact: http://www.golibrary.nlb.gov.sg/

1 Jun (Sat): Free Chek Jawa boardwalk tour with the Naked Hermit Crabs

The Naked Hermit Crabs introduce you to Chek Jawa without getting your feet wet. Even though we are not going on to the shore, there is still much to see and enjoy. There are monitor lizards, fiddler crabs, spiders, rare plants, wild boar, mudskippers and lots of fruit trees. If we are lucky, we might even spot the Oriental Pied Hornbill, White-bellied Sea Eagle and the giant Atlas Moth.
Wild boar crossing! Getting close to nature
Not more than five persons in a group, pre-register with this online form.

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

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

1 Jun (Sat): The Wallace Lectures "Lace Corals and Moss Animals" by Dr Kevin J. Tilbrook

What are lace corals and moss animals? How many of these can we expect to find in Singapore? Come for this special talk by Dr Kevin J. Tilbrook to find out more.
Click on image for larger view

The talk is free but registration is required online at http://bit.ly/Tilbrook

The Wallace Lecture Series was a series of important lectures delivered in the 1960s by well-known biologists in the then University of Malaya. These lectures stimulated discussion and encouraged the exploration of new ideas in systematics, ecology and natural heritage.


Time: 10.30am-12noon
Venue: Function Hall, Botany Centre Level One, Singapore Botanic Gardens
Website and contact: http://www.nparks.gov.sg/ Rachel Lim at lim_li-feng@nparks.gov.sg

1 Jun (Sat): Prawn and Fish Demo at Sungei Buloh

Free guided introduction to traditional prawn and fish 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: Visitors are advised to reach the Reserve by 9am. Meet the guide at the Information Counter to bring you for an approximate half an hour walk to the prawn and fish demostration site.
Entry charges: While the walk is free, admission fees to the Reserve apply: $1 per adult, 50cents per child/student/senior citizen.
Website: http://www.sbwr.org.sg/
Contact: info@sbwr.org.sg or call 6794 1401

1 Jun (Sat): Heritage Tree and Heritage Roads Tour (Southern Singapore)

Heritage Trees are mature trees of special historical, botanical, social, cultural and/or aesthetic value in society. Through this tour, you can get up close and personal with the trees, which are an important part of our roots as a City in a Garden. This session will bring participants to a tour of selected Heritage Trees and Heritage Roads in the Southern part of Singapore.
More about the guide: Gan Khing enjoys looking at trees and has been working in NParks for the past six years. She is now in the Urban Gardening Section/Heritage Tree Secretariat, sharing with the public her passion for trees.

The Learning Journey is limited to 35 participants. Registration is free of charge. Please register at golibrary.com.sg, on a first-come-first-served basis.

Time: 2 - 4.30pm
Venue: Queenstown Public Library
Website: http://www.nparks.gov.sg/
Contact: nparks_urban_gardening@nparks.gov.sg.

1 Jun (Sat): Young Mathematician of the Garden

How many petals are there on a flower? Count the number of leaflets on a leaf. Get introduced to addition, subtraction, and many more mathematical skills that you can apply to plants. Be a young Mathematician of the Garden in this guided tour and have fun learning about Maths and Plants.

Suitable for children in P3 – P6 levels.

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

Time: 10-11am
Cost: $6 per child and $6 per accompanying parent
Venue: Jacob Ballas Children’s Garden, Bukit Timah Core of the Singapore Botanic Gardens
Website: http://www.nparks.gov.sg/