Celebrating Singapore's BioDiversity!

Biodiversity for kids during the June school holidays

noreply@blogger.com (ria tan) — Sun, 19 May 2013 23:00:00 +0000

Exciting nature activities specially for kids are lined up for June school holidays! Lots of fun ways to discover and enjoy Singapore's biodiversity!

Volunteer the whole family to help in forest conservation or in rescuing horseshoe crabs. Lots of free activities including art workshops, guided walk at Chek Jawa boardwalk, see how traditional prawn farming was done, get a closer look and understanding of our wild monkeys. Or join workshops on owls, butterflies, pond life and lots more!

VOLUNTEER and make a wild difference!

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. 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.

Horseshoe Crab Rescue and Research with the Nature Society (Singapore) on 1 Jun (Sat) and 15 Jun (Sat) and 29 Jun (Sat)
Join the Nature Society to rescue and study the Mangrove Horseshoe Crab (HSC).

FREE events

1 Jun (Sat): HeART for Nature - FREE workshop for kids
At Hindhede Nature Park (meet at Pulai Hut). This FREE art workshop helps children to delve deep into their hearts to express nature in various themed art activities like drawing, fingerprinting, origami, puppet making. The children will also learn about our natural heritage. Suitable for children aged 5 to 8 years (with parental supervision).

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.

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.

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

8 Jun (Sat): HeART for Nature - FREE workshop for kids
At Dairy Farm Nature Park- Wallace Education Centre. This FREE art workshop helps children to delve deep into their hearts to express nature in various themed art activities like drawing, fingerprinting, origami, puppet making. The children will also learn about our natural heritage. Suitable for children aged 5 to 8 years (with parental supervision).

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.

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.

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. From 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.

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.

MORE events

1 Jun (Sat): Nature Sketching in the Garden

Join us for this art-and-nature appreciation workshop and draw at leisure in a beautiful garden setting. The workshop will cover basic landscape and nature drawing, as well as colour theory, with emphasis on understanding the unique characteristics of our gardens, nature, flora and fauna. This workshop is conducted by Tham Puisan, an avid artist who expresses his passion for nature through his artwork. He welcomes participants of all ages or anyone who wants to learn. Suitable for adults and youths 12 years and above. $21 per person, materials included.

1 Jun (Sat): Roots, Shoots, & Fruits Guided Walk Admiralty Park
Learn more about the diversity of plant life, their unique and interesting characteristics, and their importance to people. $5 per person/ $80 for 15 persons.

Fun with Maths & Plants! on 1 Jun (Sat): and and 13 Jun (Thu):

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. $6 per child and $6 per accompanying parent.

Young Mathematician of the Garden on 1 Jun (Sat): and 13 Jun (Thu):
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. $6 per child and $6 per accompanying parent.

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. $9 per child and $9 per accompanying adult.

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. $6 per child and $6 per accompanying adult.

Discover Pond Life - a guided tour for kids on 8 Jun (Sat) and 24 Jun (Mon):

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. $6 per child and $6 per accompanying adult.

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. For children 4 to 12 years old. $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.

8 Jun (Sat): Roots, Shoots, & Fruits Guided Walk at Sengkang Riverside Park
Learn more about the diversity of plant life, their unique and interesting characteristics, and their importance to people. $5 perperson/ $80 for 15 persons.

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. $25 per child.

15 Jun (Sat): Guided walk at the Sensory Trail, Pulau Ubin Experience Ubin's wonderful nature through your senses along our Sensory Trail. This is an excellent introduction to the rustic and natural character of the island. You will be able to touch, see or smell fruit trees, spices and herbs for cooking, plants used in traditional medicine and native plants of the mangrove forest. $60 per group of 15 persons, maximum 6 groups

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. $5 per person.

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. Suitable for children in K1 - P6 levels, 5-12 years. $9 per child (includes $3 “Sara goes to the Supermarket Garden” workbook) and $6 per accompanying adult.

You can also explore on your own! Check out the many DIY Trail Guides on the NParks website. More about our wild places on wildsingapore. A tip to avoid the crowds on school holiday weekends, come early. That's when wildlife is more active anyway. And leave before it gets too hot.

MORE school holiday activities on the wildsingapore happenings blog.

A crab found only in Singapore!

noreply@blogger.com (ria tan) — Sun, 05 May 2013 09:55:00 +0000

The Singapore Freshwater Crab is one of the three known species of crabs endemic to Singapore. This means that it is unique to Singapore and not found anywhere else in the world!

The Singapore Freshwater Crab, found only in Singapore.

Here's more about these crabs and the work that has been done and needs to be done to protect them.

The Endangered Singapore Crab
in My Green Space Issue 17 an NParks magazine

A view of the crab from above.

Mention the word 'crab' in Singapore, and images of the ubiquitously adored Chilli Crab – a popular Singapore seafood dish – is conjured in people's minds. But do you know that other than its famous chilli crabs, Singapore has another claim to fame in another crab – the Singapore Freshwater Crab?

A uniquely Singapore species

The Singapore Freshwater Crab is certainly not one that you will expect to find in your wok. In fact, it grows to a size of only 2-3cm, so tiny that you would hardly notice its presence in the freshwater streams of Singapore. Known scientifically as Johora singaporensis, this species is one of the three known species of crabs endemic to Singapore. This means that it is unique to Singapore and not found anywhere else in the world!

Ecology and distribution

The Singapore Freshwater Crab was first discovered and described in 1986 by Peter Ng, now a professor at the National University of Singapore. It lives in streams running through undisturbed forests and tends to seek cover under rocks in the stream.

The crab is a nocturnal creature and feeds on detritus and worms found in the stream bed. It appears to have an environmental preference for relatively clean and fast-flowing streams in the highlands with a near neutral pH and high concentration of dissolved oxygen. It is generally absent in waters that are acidic or in area that are disturbed with high siltation. The crab reproduces throughout the year with a peak in the wettest months. Sexual ratio is about 1:1, with egg-carrying females rarely seen due to their cryptic behaviour. The crab currently survives in limited numbers in small hill streams at Bukit Timah, Bukit Batok and Bukit Gombak.

Surveying a hill stream at Bukit Timah Nature Reserve.

Over the years, the population has dwindled drastically, so much so that the Singapore Freshwater Crab is now listed by the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) as a critically endangered species. In fact, the Singapore Freshwater Crab is now considered one of the top 100 most threatened species in the world.

Rapidly dwindling population – A cause for concern

Efforts to study the population of the Singapore Freshwater Crab have shown that out of the three known locations where the species was originally found, its population has declined sharply at one location, and remains extant (or still existing) in the other two locations.

Surveying a hill stream at Bukit Batok.

So what has caused the decline of the Singapore Freshwater Crab? Unfortunately, this is a question that even local scientists have not been able to answer adequately. One possibility is that rapid urbanisation and industrialisation in Singapore in the later part of the last century has resulted in the rarity of freshwater streams, and acidification of the streams most probably caused by acid rain, thus making conditions undesirable for the species to live and propagate.

Conservation Efforts

There is a much cause for concern and a need for concerted efforts to protect the Singapore Freshwater Crab and its natural habitat. To augment current efforts to study and conserve the crab, the National Parks Board (NParks), in collaboration with the National University of Singapore (NUS), has embarked on a two-year project, which aims to conduct a rapid assessment of the crab population, study the current conditions of its existing habitat and look into possible remedial actions to ensure that the crab can continue to thrive in its natural environment.

The Singapore Freshwater Crab is an icon for nature conservation and serves as a reminder for us to protect the biodiversity in urbanised Singapore, for it is part of our unique identity and heritage.

By Tan Sze Peng and Cai Yixiong

All crab and Bukit Batok survey photos by Cai Yixiong; photo of survey at Bukit Timah Nature Reserve by Lim Jingyang.

Wild about Nature: A look at nature groups in Singapore

noreply@blogger.com (ria tan) — Sun, 05 May 2013 08:41:00 +0000

Thanks to Lea Wee, there's a great feature of active nature groups in today's Sunday Times! With a "mission to celebrate and conserve what is left of the rich and diverse wildlife here, despite intense urbanisation."

The article is a great introduction to the current nature scene, including some of the most active groups and their work. You CAN be a part of this too!

"Nature groups have sprung up, holding walks, talks and scientific surveys. And interest in these activities is rising too", says Lea Wee in the Sunday Times 5 May 13.

Read the articles on wildsingapore news which has added links to the groups, issues and activities mentioned. So you can find out more about how you can be a part of this!

See all these groups and more at the upcoming annual Festival of Biodiversity 2013 on July 13 and 14 at VivoCity, from 10am to 10pm. For more information, go to www.nparks.gov.sg/festivalofbiodiversity.

See you there!

22 Apr: Earth Day in Singapore

noreply@blogger.com (ria tan) — Sun, 14 Apr 2013 23:00:00 +0000

Lots of biodiversity activities to celebrate Earth Day in Singapore this weekend!

What is Earth Day?
There's often much confusion about Earth Day.

From wikipedia: Started nearly 40 years ago in the US, the Earth Day celebrated on 22 Apr is not a UN-sanctioned 'Day' or 'Year'. The 'official' Earth Day site is http://www.earthday.org/. In addition, there is a UN-sanctioned Equinox Earth Day which is celebrated around March at the annual equinox. This is managed by the Earth Society Foundation.

Nevertheless, a wide range of activities are conducted under the banner of 'Earth Day' in many countries on 22 April.

Here's some Earth Day activities to be held in Singapore:

20 Apr (Sat): Free Earth Day Pasir Ris Mangrove boardwalk tour with the Naked Hermit Crabs
There are fascinating mangroves at Pasir Ris Park! Easily explored through the boardwalks and it's open even at night! Celebrate Earth Day with the Naked Hermit Crabs, join this evening stroll through an interesting but often overlooked mangrove.

Here, we are sure to see lots of crazy tree climbing crabs, delightful giant mudskippers and cool monitor lizards. Pasir Ris is also one of the few places where nesting herons are easily observed. And as the sun sets, we might spot some nocturnal animals like watersnakes. If we're lucky, we may catch a glimpse of the rare Mangrove pitta or the family of otters that have been seen here! The walk is free and suitable for children.

20 Apr (Sat): Earth Day Celebrations at Sungei Buloh Wetland Reserve
Join these exciting events at Sungei Buloh Wetland Reserve to celebrate Earth Day.

Click on image for larger view.

9am - Plant-a-Propagule (while stocks last, plant a baby mangrove tree!)
9.30am and 9.45am: Guided Tour of the Mangroves
10-11am - Talk on "Mangroves: Web of Love and Hate Relationships"
Throughout the day - Pebble Painting, Nature Origami

While the activities are free, entry charges to the Reserve apply: $1 per adult, 50cents per child/student/senior citizen.

20 Apr (Sat): Earth Day Special - Sara goes Carbon Footprinting

Join Sara, the Botanicosaurus, and her new friend, Rana the Frog in this tour and learn about carbon footprints and the many little but important things that all of us can do to make a difference for our home, Planet Earth! Young participants will also be introduced to some useful and multi-purpose trees! Suitable for children in P3 – P6 levels. $8.50 per child (includes $2.50 “Sara Goes Carbon Footprinting" workbook) and $6 per accompanying adult

20 Apr (Sat): Earth Day Special: Storytime with Sara - Learning about the 3Rs

Join us for a fun-filled storytelling session, specially designed for little ones. Together with Sara and her friend, Rana the Frog, children will learn about the importance of trees, how to save the earth and what we can do to protect the environment. Suitable for children in K1 – P2 levels. $6 per child and $6 per accompanying adult.

Biodiversity for kids during the March school holidays

noreply@blogger.com (ria tan) — Mon, 04 Mar 2013 08:13:00 +0000

Exciting nature activities specially for kids are lined up for March school holidays! Lots of fun ways to discover and enjoy Singapore's biodiversity!

Choose from guided walks at mangroves (Pasir Ris, Admiralty, Sungei Buloh),wetlands (Kranji Marsh, Sengkang Riverside), forests (Bukit Timah, Southern Ridges, Bukit Batok), offshore islands (Pulau Ubin's Sensory Trail). Or go cycling at Changi. Join fun children's activities from treasure hunts, drama and craft workshops, night walks and lots more. Also opportunities to make a difference for our forests as a family.

FREE events

16 Mar (Sat) and 23 Mar (Sat): Mangrove walk at Sungei Buloh Free guided nature walk along the Mangrove boardwalk under shady mangrove trees. Spot mudskippers, crabs and other marine life, learn about our mangroves, enjoy views of the Johor straits. Suitable for young children.

16 Mar (Sat): A walk in an ancient forest, Bukit Timah Nature Reserve Bukit Timah Nature Reserve is the largest surviving primary rainforest in Singapore. Come and join us on a fascinating journey of discovery to learn more about the natural wonders of Bukit Timah Nature Reserve and why we should protect and conserve its complex ecosystem and diversity. This free guided walk will introduce you to the common native flora and fauna found in the primary rainforest. This guided walk is suitable for families with children 9 and above, and groups of not more than 5.

16 Mar (Sat): Fun walk along the Southern Ridges Take your family on a leisurely stroll through the Southern Ridges, a soothing sanctuary of greenery that is steeped in history and home to some of nature's greatest gifts of flora and fauna. Highlights of the free tour include the Henderson Waves, Sembcorp Forest of Giants, Forest Walk and Singing Forest. This free walk is conducted by the Sembcorp volunteer guides.

16 Mar (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. The tour is limited to 35 participants. Registration is free of charge.

17 Mar (Sun): Birdwatching at Kranji Marsh Open to the public. To celebrate 2013 World Water Day, Nature Society (Singapore) together with PUB is conducting a birdwatching walk at Kranji Marshes and the nearby Kranji Reservoir Bund.We begin with a pleasant stroll along a countryside road to the Kranji Marshes where we will continue our walk along the PUB Bund. 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.

23 Mar (Sat): Free Pasir Ris Mangrove boardwalk tour with the Naked Hermit Crabs

There are fascinating mangroves at Pasir Ris Park! Easily explored through the boardwalks and it's open even at night! Join the Naked Hermit Crabs for an evening stroll through this interesting but often overlooked mangrove. Here, we are sure to see lots of crazy tree climbing crabs, delightful giant mudskippers and cool monitor lizards. Pasir Ris is also one of the few places where nesting herons are easily observed. And as the sun sets, we might spot some nocturnal animals like watersnakes. If we're lucky, we may catch a glimpse of the rare Mangrove pitta or the family of otters that have been seen here!

24 Mar (Sun): Otter Cycling Trail @ Changi Get engaged with wildlife and some exercise while you’re at it. Join the Otter Cycling Trail, a bike ride that runs along the NPark’s Park Connector Networks in the northeastern part of Singapore. Interspersed with pit stops, your friendly guides will introduce you to a host of wildlife in beat-up natural areas that run along the route. What’s more, these are all the hotspots for otter sightings – we may get to see them if we’re reeeally lucky!

24 Mar (Sun): 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 on site, 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.

MORE nature activities

16 Mar (Sat): "Trees Around Us" - drama workshop for kids Trees around us are of great importance to nature and to our environment. They contribute countless benefits to our daily lives by shading us from the hot sun, shielding us from rain, providing us with clean air. Trees are also homes to many living creatures. Through play and dramatization in this drama series, children get to take on various participating roles in the story, to learn about the beauty of trees. Through each story, children learn to emulate and incorporate good, moral value in their lives. Based on a short story by Shel Silverstein, children will open their eyes to another side of trees. They will learn that a tree has many wonders and through this short drama, participants will see in various ways that trees can contribute to our daily lives. Suitable for children in K1 – P6 levels. $10/child.

16 Mar (Sat): Guided walk at the Sensory Trail, Pulau Ubin Experience Ubin's wonderful nature through your senses along our Sensory Trail. This is an excellent introduction to the rustic and natural character of the island. You will be able to touch, see or smell fruit trees, spices and herbs for cooking, plants used in traditional medicine and native plants of the mangrove forest. $60 per group of 15 persons, maximum 6 groups.

16 Mar (Sat): Roots, Shoots, & Fruits Guided Walk Learn more about the diversity of plant life, their unique and interesting characteristics, and their importance to people at Admiralty Park. $5 per person/ $80 per venue (for 15 persons)

17 Mar (Sun): Flights of Fantasy! for kids If you are between the ages of 5 to 10 years old, and are interested in birds, join in this bird-watching workshop and find out about the birds and plants that live on and around the Singing Forest along the Forest Walk. Bring along your binoculars and you might spot some of the 43 species of birds that may be found here! Planted along the Southern Ridges, these fruit trees form the Singing Forest - an arboretum project undertaken by the National Parks Board as part of its effort to enhance biodiversity within urban areas. This programme is conducted with Cicada Tree Eco Place. $10 per child.

18 Mar (Mon): Children's Treasure Hunt - a guided tour A giant forgetful prehistoric dinosaur has left its eggs in the Singapore Botanic Gardens! Children will discover some interesting members of the plant kindgom in this guided tour ending in a treasure hunt. Suitable for children in K1 - P2 levels. $8.50 per child (includes $2.50 "Sara, The Forgetful Dinosaur" Workbook)

22 Mar (Fri): Adventure with Plants - Sara at the Evolution Garden In this guided tour for kids, join a giant prehistoric dinosaur, Sara, who lost her friends in the Evolution Garden. Travel back through time with Sara and help her search for her squirrel friends. By going through the thematic trail, you will also learn about some ancient plants which emerged on earth millions of years ago! Suitable for children in K1 – P2 levels. $8.50 per child (includes $2.50 "Adventure with Plants, Sara at the Evolution Garden" workbook) and $6 per accompanying adult.

23 Mar (Sat): Workshop for kids - We Love the Night Life! Who loves the night life? Bats, snakes, frogs, toads, owls and night jars! Join our lesson to find out more - we will start with a talk showcasing native nocturnal wildlife, followed by an art and craft session where kids can make and keep paper souvenirs of our nocturnal animals. The event will end with a night walk at HortPark where we will try and spot nocturnal wildlife. Suitable for kids 5-10, this programme is conducted with Cicada Tree Eco Place. $25 per child.

23 Mar (Sat): Roots, Shoots, & Fruits Guided Walk Learn more about the diversity of plant life, their unique and interesting characteristics, and their importance to people at Sengkang Riverside Park. $5 per person/ $80 per venue (for 15 persons)

23 Mar (Sat): Kent Ridge Park Heritage Tour Kent Ridge Park is one of the few places in Singapore that is rich in both historical and natural heritage. Discover the interesting flora and fauna, and learn all about the fiercest and one of the last battles fought in Singapore during World War II. Suitable for kids aged 7 and above. $7 per person.

23 Mar (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. $5 per person.

March is the last chance to visit the Public Gallery at the Raffles Museum of Biodiversity Research! The Gallery will be closed on 1 Apr in preparation for the move to the new museum in 2014.

So if you haven't visited the Gallery yet, or would like to get a last look, drop by before 1 April! A great family outing for the March school holidays too! More details.

You can also explore on your own! Check out the many DIY Trail Guides on the NParks website. More about our wild places on wildsingapore. A tip to avoid the crowds on school holiday weekends, come early. That's when wildlife is more active anyway. And leave before it gets too hot.

MORE school holiday activities on the wildsingapore happenings blog.

2 Feb (Sat): World Wetlands Day - Wetlands take care of water

noreply@blogger.com (ria tan) — Wed, 30 Jan 2013 09:21:00 +0000

2 Feb is World Wetlands Day and in 2013, the theme is "Wetlands take care of water"

Snippet from "Some Dry Facts about Wetlands"
on the Ramsar site.

In Singapore, celebrate this weekend with kids' and family activities at Sungei Buloh and Kranji Marsh!

3 Feb (Sun): NSS Kids' Fun with Water Birds at Sungei Buloh Wetland Reserve
Sungei Buloh is arguably Singapore's best-known birdwatching site. Its mangrove mudflats are important feeding grounds for migratory water birds during the northern winter. Join the Education Group as we seek out distinctive birds like the Pacific Golden Plover, Whimbrel, Common Redshank and more. Huge Water Monitor Lizards are a common sight. If we are lucky, we might even see the Smooth Otter, Estuarine Crocodile and Shore Pit Viper.

2 Feb (Sat): Waders' Watch Workshop at Sungei Buloh
The migratory bird season has started and the birds are here at Sungei Buloh! Sungei Buloh is an important bird site for these birds. Every year, thousands of these birds visit Sungei Buloh and other parts of Singapore to find food and shelter during winter in the northern parts of the world. Join in this workshop to know how to identify these amazing birds. Also learn how to Birdwatch and how you can help NParks in studying the migratory patterns of these birds in Singapore.The workshop comprises a lecture and discussion about the birds followed by a field tour to practice identifying migratory shorebirds.

2 Feb (Sat): Birdwatching at Kranji Marsh
Open to the public. From 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.

What is World Wetlands Day about?

From the RAMSAR website

World Wetlands Day marks the date of the signing of the Convention on Wetlands on 2 February 1971, in the Iranian city of Ramsar; thus also called the Ramsar Convention.

Each year, government agencies, non-governmental organizations, and groups of citizens at all levels of the community take this opportunity to raise public awareness of wetland values and benefits in general and the Ramsar Convention in particular.

What is the Ramsar Convention?

The Ramsar Convention's mission is "the conservation and wise use of all wetlands through local and national actions and international cooperation, as a contribution towards achieving sustainable development throughout the world".

What is World Wetlands Day 2013 about?

Wetlands take care of water: reflects the interdependence between water and wetlands and the key role that wetlands play. Wisely using our wetlands is an essential component of the delivery of sustainable water management.

Check out the World Wetlands Day 2013 leaflet which paints the big picture, who manages water, the many challenges and what we can do.

The water footprint of some food: cocoa has a huge footprint!
from the World Wetlands Day 2013 leaflet

More about Ramsar sites on the wild shores of singapore blog.

What are the criteria for classifying Ramsar sites?
What is the status of the Ramsar convention?
Does Singapore have a Ramsar site?

New fish record, rediscovered treasures and more!

noreply@blogger.com (ria tan) — Tue, 01 Jan 2013 03:28:00 +0000

First record of the blue-tailed dartfish Ptereleotris hanae for Singapore at Pulau Hantu by Dr Zeehan Jaafar and Debby Ng of the Hantu Bloggers!

These and other fascinating articles have been uploaded on Nature in Singapore of the Raffles Museum of Biodiversity Research.

Although a common species in the Indo-Pacific, the blue-tailed dartfish had never been recorded to occur in Singapore waters. Members of this genus occur within and near rocky reefs and coral reefs. They hover close to the substrate and take refuge in burrows and crevices when threatened.

Read more about it: Jaafar Z. & D. Ng, 2012. New record of the blue-tailed dartfish, Ptereleotris hanae (Teleostei: Ptereleotridae) in Singapore. Nature in Singapore, 5: 369–371. [PDF, 214 KB]

Crabby seagrasses!

What kind of crabs can be found in our seagrass meadows? Lee Qi did a study to find out! She found that even though Chek Jawa had the highest number of genera and greatest abundance of crabs, its overall diversity was comparable to that of Changi Beach. Pulau Semakau was the least diverse of the three sites.

Read more about it: Lee, Q., Siti Maryam Yaakub, N. K. Ng, P. L. A. Erftemeije & P. A. Todd, 2012. The crab fauna of three seagrass meadows in Singapore: a pilot study. Nature in Singapore, 5: 363–368. [PDF, 518 KB]

Alien lizard

An established population of the brown anole (Norops sagrei) has been spotted in Singapore at Gardens by the Bay. It is not known from the surrounding areas and must have been imported. Elsewhere, their introduction has been attributed to the nursery trade.

The possible ecological impact from feral brown anoles in Singapore is unknown. But the brown anole is reputed to be an invasive species that has apparently caused the decline of the native green anole in Florida where it is firmly established by feeding on the latter’s hatchlings. In southern Taiwan, brown anoles can significantly alter the community structure of ants on betelnut palm plantations either by direct predation by the lizards or indirectly causing the ants to shift foraging sites.

Read more about it: Tan, H. H. & K. K. P. Lim, 2012. Recent introduction of the brown anole Norops sagrei (Reptilia: Squamata: Dactyloidae) to Singapore. Nature in Singapore, 5: 359–362. [PDF, 397 KB]

Rare giant fig

Ficus stricta is a fig previously unrecorded in Singapore, and was listed as an exotic by Chong et al. (2010). However, since it was only recently collected in 2004, and with Singapore lying within the general geographic range of the species, the authors believe that the species is native but previously uncollected and overlooked because of its rarity. it is only known from Changi and Pulau Ubin, and they propose it as nationally critically endangered.

a, Tree on an outcrop at Pulau Ubin depicted by
John Turnbull Thomson in 1850,
entitled ―Grooved stones at Pulo Ubin near Singapore‖ (shown in part);
b, tree which bears a striking resemblance to the Ficus stricta
individual designated as a Heritage Tree at Celestial Resort.

Oriental pied hornbills were observed to feed on its ripe syconia, and the authors believe that it is an important food resource of this and other bird species. Therefore, they suggest that existing reproductive individuals should be conserved and more plants should be planted in parks and gardens to support animal biodiversity.

Read more about it: Yeo, C. K., X. Y. Ng, W. Q. Ng, K. Y. Chong, W. F. Ang & Ali bin Ibrahim, 2012. Ficus stricta (Miq.) Miq.: A new record in Singapore. Nature in Singapore, 5: 351–358. [PDF, 2.47 MB]

Grasshoppers and Crickets Galore!

Tan Ming Kai did an inventory of these critters at Bidadari Cemetery, a site due for development. While the majority of the orthopteran species recorded are common and can be found in other parts of Singapore, there are some noteworthy species not recorded in the nature reserves and parks. And Bidadari Cemetery appears to be the only known site for the two species of crickets in Singapore.

Read more about it: Tan, M. K., 2012. Orthoptera of the exhumed Bidadari Cemetery, Singapore. Nature in Singapore, 5: 343–350. [PDF, 1.21 MB]

Tan Ming Kai also did a survey of them at Pulau Semakau. Of the orthopteran species recorded, most are fairly common and also occur on Singapore Island. The record of Gonista cf. bicolor, however, is an exception. Last collected from Kent Ridge in 1970 and 1975, there was no sighting during recent orthopteran studies on Singapore Island, including Kent Ridge Park, and offshore islands such as Pulau Ubin since 2009.

Without further investigation, it is not possible to establish if this is a result of local extinction on Singapore Island or that of poor sampling. Thus far, it may only be postulated that Gonista cf. bicolor may be restricted to the Semakau Landfill, even though the documentation of its existence in Singapore is still positive.

Read more about it: Tan, M. K. & L. K. Wang, 2012. The Orthoptera of Semakau Landfill, Singapore: a Project Semakau checklist. Nature in Singapore, 5: 309–318. [PDF, 1.17 MB]

Wildlife at a concerete canal

What kinds of birds can be seen here? Dr Leong Tzi Ming shares lots of interesting observations of birds from egrets, herons to kingfishers and the variety of fishes that they ate. Some like this kingfisher even nest in the canal!

Tzi Ming says: Having observed the intimate dependency of the fish-eating birds on the canal and its fish diversity, the quality of the water immediately comes to mind. Potentially disruptive compounds, such as heavy metals, pesticides, detergents may inadvertently leach into such canals and eventually find their way up the food chain into key predators, including these herons and egrets. Hence, such bird species may actually serve as key bio-indicators of the health of particular channels and even their associated catchment areas.

Read more about it: Leong, T. M., 2012. Observations of piscivorous avifauna along Siglap Canal, Singapore. Nature in Singapore, 5: 291–307. [PDF, 3.23 MB]

Is Singapore a destination for animals fleeing development in Malaysia and Indonesia?

The author notes that a number of bird and mammal species have become more abundant and widespread in Singapore in recent years, including at least three birds (Gallus gallus, Vanellus indicus, Strix seloputo) and one mammal, the wild boar (Sus scrofa), although all were either formerly rare or had highly localised distributions. Current ecological knowledge of these species show that all can exploit newly deforested or cultivated lands and in documented instances, can occur more abundantly in cultivated areas. While empirical evidence is limited, distributional records concentrated along Singapore’s borderlands (e.g., Western Catchment Area and Pulau Ubin) suggest that source populations of these species are in southern Peninsular Malaysia (Johor state) and possibly the Riau Islands (Indonesia), where tropical forests have undergone massive conversion to cultivation, particularly for oil palm and rubber. All four species can easily disperse into Singapore from neighbouring source populations and colonise unoccupied habitats like scrublands and secondary forests. There are however few studies documenting these landscape-level ecological changes and how biodiversity can be affected in the long term, especially in Singapore’s context. Based on a theoretical framework of island biogeography, metapopulations, and source-sink dynamics, the author propose approaches to describe and quantify these ecological changes and their potential impacts.

Read more about this: Yong, D. L., 2012. Massive deforestation in southern Peninsular Malaysia driving ecological change in Singapore? Nature in Singapore, 5: 285–289. [PDF, 333 KB]

MORE studies

Rediscovery of a fern Lindsaea divergens which was presumed nationally extinct in Singapore until a small population was rediscovered at MacRitchie Reservoir Park, Central Catchment Nature Reserve in 2009. Tan, S. Y. & C. K. Yeo, 2012. Rediscovery of Lindsaea divergens in Singapore. Nature in Singapore, 5: 339–341. [PDF, 466 KB]

A survey of Clementi forest found that while almost half of the vascular flora is exotic, it also harbours rare native species, such as the recently rediscovered presumed nationally extinct orchid, Dienia ophrydis. Moreover, about 20% of the recorded species are nationally threatened. Neo, L., A. T. K. Yee, K. Y. Chong & H. T. W. Tan, 2012. The vascular plant flora of abandoned plantations in Singapore I: Clementi Forest. Nature in Singapore, 5: 275–283. [PDF, 980 KB]

The colourful ocellated shield bug Cantao ocellatus was studied consolidating their natural history and behaviour were documented, with corresponding photographs and videos by Leong, T. M. & B. P. Y-H. Lee, 2012. Records and natural history of the ocellated shield bug, Cantao ocellatus (Thunberg) in Singapore, with observations on egg guarding, hatching, parasitoids, moulting, feeding, and mating (Hemiptera: scutelleridae: scutellerinae). Nature in Singapore, 5: 249–262. [PDF, 2.40 MB]

This is just a selection of some of the many fascinating paper on the Nature in Singapore website of the Raffles Museum of Biodiversity Research, the National University of Singapore.

Biodiversity for kids during the year end school holidays

noreply@blogger.com (ria tan) — Sun, 11 Nov 2012 16:19:00 +0000

Exciting nature activities for kids are lined up for the year end school holidays! Lots of fun ways to discover and enjoy Singapore's biodiversity!

M.A.D. (Make A Difference) for Wild Pigs by Cicada Tree Eco Place

Learn how to make a difference for Wild Pigs! Party with the Pangolins, learn about night animals, butterflies, and forest giants to garden plants. Join events specially for kids from a kids Garden Party to exploring the Chek Jawa boardwalk, Sungei Buloh Wetland Reserve and lots more! Many for free.

Free events

18 Nov (Sun): M.A.D. (Make A Difference) for Wild Pigs
A FREE education programme by Cicada Tree Eco-Place Where do wild pigs live in Singapore? Are there wild pigs that live in other parts of the world? What do wild pigs look like? What do they eat? What may eat them? How many piglets do they usually have? What dangers do they face? How can we live with them? What can we do to conserve them? If we should meet a with a wild pig, what should we do? If you're a kid between the ages of 5 and 10 years, and would like to learn more about wild pigs, then join us for an evening of fun and learning. Take home with you a better idea about wild pigs that live in our midst. Pre-registration required.

1 Dec (Sat): Workshop for kids - We Love the Night Life!
Who loves the night life? Bats, snakes, frogs, toads, owls and night jars! Join our lesson to find out more - we will start with a talk showcasing native nocturnal wildlife, followed by an art and craft session where kids can make and keep paper souvenirs of our nocturnal animals. The event will end with a night walk at HortPark where we will try and spot nocturnal wildlife. Suitable for kids 5-10. Pre-registration required.

8 Dec (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. Pre-registration required.

8 Dec (Sat): HeART for Nature - FREE workshop for kids
This FREE art workshop helps children to delve deep into their hearts to express nature in various themed art activities like drawing, fingerprinting, origami, puppet making. The children will also learn about our natural heritage. Suitable for children aged 5 to 8 years (with parental supervision). Pre-registration required.

9 Dec (Sun): Greet our Forest Giants! a workshop for kids
Kids will learn about the animals and plants that live on and around beautiful forest trees planted along the Southern Ridges. These forest trees form the Sembcorp Forest of Giants - and arboretum project undertaken by NParks as part of its efforts to enhance biodiversity within urban areas. Pre-registration is required. Suitable for kids 5-10. Pre-registration required.

24 Nov (Sat) and 15 Dec (Sat): Young Naturalists Passport Camp at Sungei Buloh
This one day camp encompasses a series of fun-filled and educational indoor and outdoor learning of the wetlands and nature conservation issues through worksheets, nature walks and hands-on activities. Children will earn a stamp for every completed activity, and a full collection of stamps will earn them a series of cloth badges. Limited to 40 children between the age of 6-10 years old. Pre-registration is required.

MORE events

17 Nov (Sat): Party with the Pangolins
Pangolins are critically endangered because of habitat loss and poaching. To find out more about pangolins and how to protect these cute critters, sign up for Cicaca Tree Eco Place's educational workshop! It is specially tailored for children between 5-10 years. Come join us and experience a day of exciting fun-filled activities. Try to spot a pangolin on our Night Trail! $10 per child. Each child will receive a button badge, a pangolin jigsaw puzzle and an information booklet. Pre-registration required.

18 Nov (Sun): Jacob Ballas Children's Garden Carnival
Jacob Ballas Children's Garden turns 5! We are celebrating the 5th anniversary of Singapore’s most popular children’s garden with a Carnival and raising funds for a new extension to the garden. Come join us for a fun-filled day of games, food and entertainment!

20 Nov (Tue): Children's Treasure Hunt - a guided tour
A giant prehistoric dinosaur has left its eggs in the Singapore Botanic Gardens! Children will discover some interesting members of the plant kindgom in this guided tour ending in a treasure hunt. Suitable for children in K1 - P2 levels. $8.50 per child (includes $2.50 "Sara, The Forgetful Dinosaur" Workbook). Pre-registration required.

24 Nov (Sat): NSS Kids' Fun with Forest Butterflies at Dairy Farm Nature Park
Be inspired by 11-year old Tan Teong Seng as he points out the fabulous forest butterflies at Dairy Farm Nature Park. Forest butterflies are a different set from the parkland variety, each wonderfully adapted to life in their respective niches. This trip is co-guided by Lena Chow. A fee of $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. Pre-registration required.

26 Nov (Mon): Let’s Discover Plants and Animals - a guided tour for kids
Apart from plants, we often come across many animals in the Gardens, such as, birds, frogs, squirrels, butterflies, dragonflies, ants, earthworms. Be amazed by the many different types of animals in Jacob Ballas Children’s Garden! Learn fascinating facts about wildlife in the Garden and pick up tips on respecting them in nature and our environment. You may even have the chance to get up-close-and-personal with an oriental whip snake and a monitor lizard too! Suitable for children in K1 - P6 levels. $6 per child and $6 per accompanying adult. Pre-registration required.

28 Nov (Wed): 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. $6 per child and $6 per accompanying adult. Pre-registration required.

30 Nov (Fri): 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. $6 per child and $6 per accompanying adult. Pre-registration required.

You can also explore on your own! Check out the many DIY Trail Guides on the NParks website. Explore the new Berlayar Creek boardwalk, check out our heritage trees, visit Pulau Ubin and more! More about our wild places on wildsingapore. A tip to avoid the crowds on school holiday weekends, come early. That's when wildlife is more active anyway. And leave before it gets too hot.

MORE school holiday activities on the wildsingapore happenings blog.

'Panda' of the mangroves discovered, Neil Humphreys writes on Chek Jawa and more

noreply@blogger.com (ria tan) — Thu, 25 Oct 2012 05:52:00 +0000

The ‘Panda’ of Mangroves, Bruguiera hainesii, has been found in the mangroves of Pulau Tekong! Here's more by the person who found them, Koh Kwan Siong of NParks.

Also an article by renowned author Neil Humphreys about his daughter's joy at Chek Jawa, work by volunteers at Pasir Ris, how creativity resulted in a dragonfly habitat and reviews of two upcoming nature books. All in the latest issue of My Green Space Oct-Dec 2012 a newsletter of the National Parks Board.

In "Rare Findings at Pulau Tekong" by Koh Kwan Siong, we learn that the mangrove forest of Pulau Tekong is one of the largest remaining patches of mangroves in Singapore undisturbed by human activities. As such, boundless opportunities exist of meeting some of the ‘natives’ probably not found anywhere else in Singapore. Bruguiera hainesii is classified in the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) Red List as critically endangered, with an approximate estimate of only 200 trees left in the world! He also found the ‘Banana’ Mangrove Kandelia candel, an important discovery as the last known young tree died in early 2011.

In "Chek Jawa: Where Children Become Eco-warriors" renowned author Neil Humphreys declares "Without a doubt, Chek Jawa is among my favourite family spots in Singapore. For my daughter, the protected wetlands on the southern-eastern tip of Pulau Ubin offered a journey of discovery into a country’s past. My little one had never encountered mangroves before, never peered down at coral rubble or stepped over a seagrass lagoon."

"But more than that, she could just run. The 1.1 km-long boardwalk, viewing jetty and tower enabled her to do all the Dora the Explorer-type stuff that all kids must do: run, jump, chase, explore, navigate, discover, run around some more and then pee: all the things that the kampong dwellers of Pulau Ubin have always done."

In "The Flight of the Dragonfly: Creating a Dragonfly Habitat at Ulu Pandan Park Connector" by Lois Yong, we learn that what happened when some NParks staff discovered that some fitness equipment along the Ulu Pandan Park Connector were deteriorating, with water also collecting in the sandpits so that mosquito breeding was an issue.

The NParks staff observed the fitness equipment was hardly used, and brainstormed for alternatives that resulted in a transformation of the site into a dragonfly habitat!

In "A Unique Weekend of Mud, Mudskippers and Snails" by Shirley Wong we learn that the mangrove forest at Pasir Ris Park is one of the few mangrove sites left in Singapore.

This area will benefit from a collaboration between NParks and Panasonic to conduct a mangrove biodiversity study will include 16 biodiversity monitoring sessions over a two-year period, covering an area of 6 hectares, to study our mangrove tree species, snails and mudskippers.

"Hornbills in the Lion City" by Geoffrey Davison and photographs by Wong Tuan Wah, reviews "Hornbills in the City: A Conservation Approach to Hornbill Study in Singapore" which tells the story of enterprise and resourcefulness, using basic equipment combined with modern technology such as video and computers. It follows the success of particular individuals amongst Singapore’s growing hornbill population, and sets the scene for next steps.

The book will be available end of 2012 at all major bookstores and Singapore Botanic Gardens retail shops – the Garden Shop and the Library Shop.

"A Peek into the ‘Wild’ Side of Singapore" by Geoffrey Davison reviews the soon-to-be launched "Wild Singapore" book. While some readers that might consider "Wild Singapore" to be a contradiction in terms, in truth, there really is a wild side to Singapore. The book is not just about NParks and the nature reserves; it covers the whole of Singapore’s natural heritage and attempts to bring it alive through engaging narrative and vivid photographs. Every major tropical habitat from forest to sea, from mangrove to freshwater, from secondary woodland to park/garden is covered in a separate chapter. More about the book on the wild shores of singapore blog.

In early November 2012, Oxford-based publisher John Beaufoy and NParks will be launching this exciting 200-page book, illustrated with more than 250 colour photos. The book will retail for $69.90 at all major bookstores as well as Singapore Botanic Gardens retail shops – the Garden Shop and the Library Shop.

Read these articles and more in the latest issue of My Green Space Oct-Dec 2012 a newsletter of the National Parks Board.

Northern Expedition of the Mega Marine Survey finds awesome marine life in Singapore

noreply@blogger.com (ria tan) — Thu, 25 Oct 2012 05:20:00 +0000

Singapore's first ever comprehensive look at our marine biodiversity has launched a massive Northern Expedition in October. What has the Mega Marine Survey found since it first started in 2010?

Volunteers busy sorting through finds at the Northern Expedition.

Over thirty new records have been found from Singapore and the region, including the Laternula, a species of lantern shells which may have bioactive compounds and chemicals that can aid medical science.

Six species have been identified as possibly new to science, including a new species of small goby, nicknamed "Zee", found in the mudflats off Lim Chu Kang. Another five species have been rediscovered, including a species of a large coastal catfish which was last seen in Singapore waters over 100 years ago.

More details on the Mega Marine Survey blog.

The Northern Expedition involves a huge number of passionate volunteers, a large contingent of local and foreign scientists, and staff from NParks, the Tropical Marine Science Institutes, Raffles Museum of Biodiversity Research as well as many corporate sponsors. The Expedition has been doing lots of field trips, dredge surveys of the bottom of Singapore's waters and many of other lab and follow up work to find out what marine life Singapore has.

Here's a great video clip from RazorTV which gives a glimpse of what goes on during the Northern Expedition.

Catch up with the latest happenings of the Northern Expedition online via the Mega Marine Survey blog, facebook page and live tweets on #MegaMarine.

Exotic parrots and fishes; and feather star-crab

noreply@blogger.com (ria tan) — Wed, 03 Oct 2012 02:13:00 +0000

These introduced birds are pretty, but what impact do they have on our native wildlife?

These and other fascinating articles have been uploaded on Nature in Singapore of the Raffles Museum of Biodiversity Research.

Alien invaders are emerging as an important driver of biodiversity changes. Using three introduced parrot species as case studies, viz. Cacatua goffiniana, Cacatua sulphurea, and Psittacula alexandri, this review suggests that alien birds in Singapore are poorly studied and much of their ecological impacts remain undocumented. Although, these parrots do not appear to have caused apparent ecological impacts, they have the potential to pose problems in the long-term. This paper finally discusses possible management inventions to address exotic species in Singapore.

Read more in Neo, M. L., 2012. A review of three alien parrots in Singapore. Nature in Singapore, 5: 241–248. [PDF, 440 KB]

There's also more about six species of cichlid fishes recorded from Singapore based on single or few specimens. They are believed to be discarded pets or escapees, and there is as yet no evidence of them having established self-sustaining populations in Singapore’s waterways.

Read more in Liew, J. H., H. H. Tan & D. C. J. Yeo, 2012. Some cichlid fishes recorded in Singapore. Nature in Singapore, 5: 229–236. [PDF, 907 KB]

An interesting crab Harrovia longipes that lives in a feather star has been found. It was last recorded from Singapore waters in the 1990s, and there had been no collections or reported sightings since then. The present record shows that it is still found in its type locality where it appears to be uncommon.

Read more in Tan, H. H., 2012. A recent Singapore record of the crinoid crab, Harrovia longipes Lanchester (Crustacea: Brachyura: Pilumnidae). Nature in Singapore, 5: 237–240. [PDF, 670 KB]

Also a fascinating insight into the history of the recently rediscovered 'Neptune's cup sponge'. It was the the first species of sponge to be described (and recorded) from Singapore, in 1822 when it was described as a 'sponge plant' and "gigantic in all its parts" thus "a more appropriate specific distinction may perhaps be given to this, in denominating it Spongia patera, the goblet sponge." Another interesting historical feature is that the year 1819, when the 'sponge plant from the shores of Singapore', Cliona patera, was first 'unveiled' to the world at the Asiatic Society‘s meeting holds other significance—it was the year of the founding of the modern state of Singapore (Corlett, 1992: 411).

The article highlights how the rediscovery of this sponge and "as several recent publications show, the habitats in and around Singapore waters continue to yield many natural history surprises.

Read more in Low, M. E. Y., 2012. The date of publication of Cliona patera (Hardwicke), the ‘sponge plant from the shores of Singapore’ (Porifera: Hadromerida: Clionaidae). Nature in Singapore, 5: 223–227. [PDF, 358 KB]

This is just a selection of some of the many fascinating paper on the Nature in Singapore website of the Raffles Museum of Biodiversity Research, the National University of Singapore.

Singapore crab featured among the world's 100 most threatened lifeforms

noreply@blogger.com (ria tan) — Thu, 13 Sep 2012 03:23:00 +0000

A freshwater crab found only in Singapore is featured among the 100 most threatened lifeforms on the planet. Conservationists fear these organisms will be allowed to die out because none of these species provide humans with obvious benefits.

“All the species listed are unique and irreplaceable. If they vanish, no amount of money can bring them back,” said a co-author of the report. Their declines have mainly been caused by humans, but in almost all cases scientists believe their extinction can still be avoided if conservation efforts are specifically focused.

The report, called Priceless or Worthless?, was presented at the IUCN World Conservation Congress in South Korea today. The publication hopes to push the conservation of 'worthless' creatures up the agenda that is set by NGOs from around the globe.

For the first time ever, more than 8,000 scientists from the IUCN Species Survival Commission (IUCN SSC) have come together to identify 100 of the most threatened animals, plants and fungi on the planet. But conservationists fear they’ll be allowed to die out because none of these species provide humans with obvious benefits.

Read the report as an e-book, more on the IUCN website.

From the Toddycats blog

Johora singaporensis is found only in Singapore, in undisturbed primary hill forest streams, under rocks or leaf litter. Feed on plant detritus as welll as worms present in soft mud of the stream. They are mainly nocturnal. It is known only from Bukit Timah Nature Reserve and a very small population in some streamlets in Hillview and near Bukit Batok. From the NParks Flora and Fauna website.

More about Johora singaporensis

Teo Siyang's posts Uniquely Singaporeansis! and Crabbing@Polunin Stream
Johnson's Freshwater Crab a National Treasure in Peril by Chua Yi Teng
Talk by N. Sivasothi and David Ng in 2008.
A fact sheet on IUCN Red List website.
Have a Crabby National Day about all kinds of crabs in Singapore by Ivan Kwan

15 Sep (Sat): Prof Leo Tan speaks on "Greening the Red Dot - Creating a Legacy for the future?"

noreply@blogger.com (ria tan) — Thu, 13 Sep 2012 02:52:00 +0000

Singapore is a tiny island with more than 5 million people and no natural resources. So what is the value of nature and biodiversity to the socio-economic progress of this red dot? We are often reminded that it is business/finance and technology that drives the economy, not natural history! Is this really the case?

This seminar examines some aspects of the need or otherwise for nature and the environment in keeping our island salubrious and liveable as we chase our economic goals. How important or sustainable are the tiny pockets of natural forest, coastal mangroves, coral reefs and parks for us now and as a legacy for our future generations?

About Professor Leo Tan

Professor Leo Tan is the President and Fellow of the Singapore National Academy of Science. He chairs the NParks Garden City Fund, National Youth Achievement Award Council, Temasek Singapore Technologies Endowment Programme, National Science Challenge Steering Committee and the Science Sub-Commission of the Singapore National Commission for UNESCO. He is also Singapore Governor to the Asia-Europe Foundation and member of the Government Parliamentary Committee Resource Panel for National Development & Environment and Water Resources.

As the Director (Special Projects), Faculty of Science, National University of Singapore, Professor Tan successfully championed the restoration of the 160-year old Raffles Museum Natural History Collection. Under his leadership, a total of $56 million was raised for the building of the new National Museum of Natural History at NUS. The museum, slated to open in 2014, will house three of the largest dinosaur skeletons (diplodocid sauropods), believed to be the most complete and articulated fossils discovered in the past century.

He is now involved in two major research projects. (1) Singapore’s first landfill at Semakau research survey on the biodiversity of the mangroves, intertidal zone, seagrass beds and all the flora and fauna therein. This work is spearheaded by the Raffles Museum of Biodiversity Research of NUS. This study is funded by HSBC and supported by the National Environment Agency. (2) A comprehensive marine biodiversity survey of Singapore’s coastal environment funded by MND, HSBC and Shell.

The talk is free but pre-registration is required online. More details. This talk by Professor Leo Tan, organized by Wee Kim Wee Centre, SMU

Date: 15 Sep (Sat)
Time: 3-5pm
Venue: Mochtar Riady Auditorium, Level 5, Singapore Management University Administration Building
Contact: weekimweecentre@smu.edu.sg

New to science, found in Singapore!

noreply@blogger.com (ria tan) — Tue, 04 Sep 2012 08:56:00 +0000

Can you find species new to science in Singapore? Along the boardwalk? YES!

This new species of cricket was found along the Chek Jawa boardwalk! It was named after Chek Jawa too! It is called Svistella chekjawa. More critters new to science and given names associated with Singapore in the latest issue of the Raffles Bulletin of Zoology 60(2): 241–598. 31 August 2012

Here's another new species of cricket that was found along the mangrove boardwalk at Pasir Ris! It's also named after the Singapore: Ornebius tampines. Sungei Tampines is one of the small streams that run through the Pasir Ris mangroves.

Read more about these new crickets in "Two new cricket species (Orthoptera: Gryllidae And Mogoplistidae) from the mangrove areas of Singapore." Tan Ming Kai and Tony Robillard. Pp. 411-420. [pdf, 11,517 KB]

There's also a new species of water bug from Singapore, named after Singapore, Ochterus singaporensis!

It was described from specimens found in MacRitchie Catchment Reservoir and Bukit Timah forest, Lower Jungle Falls stream. This species is described as part of the Guide to the Aquatic Heteroptera of Singapore and Peninsular Malaysia which includes keys to these fascinating water bugs:

"Guide to the aquatic Heteroptera of Singapore and Peninsular Malaysia. VIII. Leptopodomorpha, families Saldidae, Leptopodidae, and Omaniidae." John T. Polhemus and Dan A. Polhemus. Pp. 329-341. [pdf, 5,325 KB]

"Guide to the aquatic Heteroptera of Singapore and Peninsular Malaysia. IX. Infraorder Nepomorpha, families Ochteridae and Gelastocoridae." Dan A. Polhemus and John T. Polhemus. Pp. 343-359. [pdf, 9,603 KB]

There is even a gecko new to science in our forests! It is also given a distinctively Singaporean name.

Cyrtodactylus majulah is a new species of bent-toed gecko from the Central Catchment Nature Reserve of Singapore. It is also found in Pulau Bintan in the Riau Archipelago of Indonesia. The authors discovered that it had been masquerading under the nomen C. quadrivirgatus.

Read more in "Cyrtodactylus majulah, a new species of bent-toed gecko (Reptilia: Squamata: Gekkonidae) from Singapore and the Riau Archipelago." L. Lee Grismer, Perry L. Wood, Jr. and Kelvin K. P. Lim. Pp. 487-499. [pdf, 5,805 KB]

There's also a paper about Singapore's Banded Leaf Monkeys in "Low genetic variability in the recovering urban banded leaf monkey population of Singapore." A. Ang, A. Srivasthan, B. M. Md.-Zain, M. R. B. Ismail and R. Meier. Pp. 589-594. [pdf, 329 KB]

And lots more in the latest issue of the Raffles Bulletin of Zoology 60(2): 241–598. 31 August 2012

Biodiversity for kids during the September holidays!

noreply@blogger.com (ria tan) — Wed, 22 Aug 2012 02:01:00 +0000

Exciting nature activities for kids are lined up for the September school holidays! Lots of fun ways to discover and enjoy Singapore's biodiversity!

On 1 Sep (Sat), explore Pasir Ris mangrove boardwalk
on the FREE walk by the Naked Hermit Crabs

Learn about wild boar and our night creatures, check out boardwalks at Chek Jawa, Pasir Ris, Sungei Buloh, visit trails at Bukit Brown, MacRitchie, Southern Ridges, and lots of other workshops and activities. Here's highlights of some of the many exciting nature events for kids during the school holidays. Many for free!

FREE events

1 Sep (Sat): Free Pasir Ris Mangrove boardwalk tour
with the Naked Hermit Crabs
There are fascinating mangroves at Pasir Ris Park! Easily explored through the boardwalks and it's open even at night! Here, we are sure to see lots of crazy tree climbing crabs, delightful giant mudskippers and cool monitor lizards. Pasir Ris is also one of the few places where nesting herons are easily observed. And as the sun sets, we might spot some nocturnal animals like watersnakes. If we're lucky, we may catch a glimpse of the rare Mangrove pitta or the family of otters that have been seen here! For kids and families. Pre-registration required.

1 Sep (Sat): Free Bird-watching along the Southern Ridges
Join this chirpy experience at Telok Blangah Hill Park! Comprising lush green open spaces and forested areas, the Southern Ridges is home to numerous species of flora and fauna. 43 species of birds have been recently surveyed in this area, and some of them are rare and uncommon. Bring along your binoculars and you may spot some of the 43 species of birds that may be found here! Pre-registration required.

1 Sep (Sat): Plant Parts - a free workshop for kids
Join us for this fun indoor activity where children can ‘create’ their own plant, while recognising the mains parts of plants and understanding their different functions. Just as each of the organs of our body performs a specific role, each part of a plant, such as roots, stem, leaves, flowers and fruits, has its special function too! For kids 5-12 years old, Queenstown Public Library.

8 Sep (Sat): Young Naturalists Passport Camp at Sungei Buloh
This one day camp encompasses a series of fun-filled and educational indoor and outdoor learning of the wetlands and nature conservation issues through worksheets, nature walks and hands-on activities. Children will earn a stamp for every completed activity, and a full collection of stamps will earn them a series of cloth badges.Limited to 40 kids 6-10 years old. Pre-registration required.

8 Sep (Sat): FREE Chek Jawa boardwalk tour
with the Naked Hermit Crabs
See 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. For kids and families. Pre-registration required.

Families celebrating National Day at the Free Chek Jawa walk
with the Naked Hermit Crabs

8 Sep (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. For kids 5 to 8 years (with parental supervision). Pre-registration required.

9 Sep (Sun): M.A.D. (Make A Difference) for Wild Pigs
A FREE education programme by Cicada Tree Eco-Place. Where do wild pigs live in Singapore? Are there wild pigs that live in other parts of the world? What do wild pigs look like? If we should meet a with a wild pig, what should we do? Note: This workshop will not bring you into close contact with wild pigs. For kids 5 and 10 years. Pre-registration required.

MORE events

1 Sep (Sat): MacRitchie Forest and Trails Walk
with Cicada Tree Eco Place
MacRitchie is more than just a reservoir from which we draw life-sustaining water for our daily consumption. It is also one of the last strongholds to some precious patches of primary rain forests left in Singapore today. Giant keruing trees, nutmegs, oak and other native tree species provide a wonderful representation of what a tropical forest is like. A walk along her many footpaths and boardwalks will bring you back in time to the majesty of the pristine forest ecosystem that had once covered the whole island of Singapore in pre-Raffles times. Some of the animals that can be seen there are flying dragons, skinks, clouded monitors, long-tailed macaques, squirrels, colugos and fish eagles.
$13 per person (adult or child). Pre-registration required.

2 Sep (Sun): Strange Plants Workshop! for kids
with Cicada Tree Eco Place
Some plants have really strange qualities! Plants like Pitcher Plants, Venue Fly-traps and Sundews eat up bugs, while other plants like Ant Plants and Ant Ferms provide food for bugs which protect them. Some plants have sweet leaves or shoots which may be eaten, while others are poisonous and should never be consumed. In this lesson, kids will learn about the Ant Plant and its symbiotic relationship with ants. Kids will also see examples of useful plants like the Rattan. The lesson will end with a walk in the garden where kids will get to hunt for all sorts of strange plants. For kids 5-10 years. $25 per child. Pre-registration required.

2 Sep (Sun): Bukit Brown Cemetery walk
with Cicada Tree Eco Place
Bukit Brown Cemetery, also known as 'Kopi Sua' or Coffee Hill in the Hokkien dialect, is a Chinese cemetery established in the early 20th century. This interesting, old and lushly vegetated cemetery is still open to the public and has become a home and habitat to a diversity of wildlife. During the year-end migratory season, many rare migrating bird species may be spotted in this cemetery. Locally rare wildlife such as the Musang or Palm Civet lives here, surviving on the fruit trees growing here such as Rambai, Durian, Rambutan, and Nangka. Our easy stroll on a level, tar road will take us on a loop through the cemetery and back to the main entrance. $13 per person (adult or child). Pre-registration required.

4 Sep (Tue): Nite Crawlie Critter walk
with Cicada Tree Eco Place
Singapore Botanic Gardens jungle boardwalk trail. We explore one of Singapore's oldest jungle patch at night to see what goes bump in the dark. Nocturnal wildlife still to be found living inside this jungle includes owls, the Red-legged Crake, Four-lined Tree frog, Whip Scorpion and other unique creepie-crawlies to be encountered. $15 per kid (suitable for kids 5 years and above). No charge for 1 accompanying adult. Pre-registration required.

5 Sep (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 has incredible marine biodiversity, and is home to many species of fishes, starfishes, anemones, crabs, sponges, seaweeds, including the Dugong or Sea Cow which comes in to graze the extensive seagrass beds here. Note: It will be on the boardwalk and walking on mudflats is not allowed. Trails: Wooden boardwalk. Earth paths, some parts with gentle slopes. $15 per person (adult or child), excluding the bumboat ride and mini-bus ride to Chek Jawa. Pre-registration required.

6 Sep (Thu): Sungei Buloh Wetland Reserve
with Cicada Tree Eco Place
This wetland reserve is now a resting and feeding spot for migratory birds. But it also hosts a fantastic diversity of native fauna and flora. In the past, the area had several kampongs (villages) with the locals tending to vegetable and fruit tree plots. Many of these fruit trees and traditional herbs still survive and may be encountered along the trails. The people also constructed fish and prawn ponds in the mangroves. These are now used by the birds. Of late, otters, civets & estuarine crocodiles have also made Sg. Buloh their home. Come see for yourselves! Trails: Level dirt paths and boardwalks suitable for children, the elderly, disabled or participants using wheelchairs. $13 per person (adult or child), excluding park entrance fees. Pre-registration required.

6 Sep (Thu): The Birthday Party: Sara at The Children's Garden
Sara is celebrating her baby brother's birthday party. At the last minute, she realizes she forgot the birthday present! Help Sara search for the perfect gift at the Children's Garden. Along the way, have a fun and memorable experience in this Garden dedicated to children. Suitable for kids in K1 – P2. $8.50 per child (includes $2.50 “The Birthday Party. Sara at the Children’s Garden” workbook); $6 per accompanying parent. Pre-registration required.

9 Sep (Sun): We Love Insects! - workshop for kids
with Cicada Tree Eco Place
A fun workshop on insects! Learn more about butterflies, moths, dragonflies, damselflies, ants and other creepy crawlies that live in HortPark. This lesson will include a guided nature walk to look for insects amongst the bushes and ponds of HortPark's gardens. All kids will go home with an art and craft souvenir which they will colour and assemble after the nature walk. For kids 5 years and older, $25 per child. Pre-registration required.

You can also explore on your own! Check out the many DIY Trail Guides on the NParks website. Explore the new Berlayar Creek boardwalk, check out our heritage trees, visit Pulau Ubin and more! More about our wild places on wildsingapore. A tip to avoid the crowds on school holiday weekends, come early. That's when wildlife is more active anyway. And leave before it gets too hot.

MORE school holiday activities on the wildsingapore happenings blog.

Singapore got wildlife meh?

noreply@blogger.com (ria tan) — Sat, 11 Aug 2012 09:22:00 +0000

A wonderful video clip for teachers and others to use in raising awareness of Singapore's biodiversity and answering that typical question we often hear.

Lovingly put together by David Tan, Jocelyne Sze and Eunice Soh, it features clips and photos shared by local nature lovers and covers the amazing biodiversity found in Singapore's land and sea.

From the YouTube page of the clip:

A community project based on the contributions of Singapore's naturalist community, this documentary explores a simple question that Singaporeans often ask - "Singapore got wildlife, meh?" and sheds some light on the amazing animals found in Singapore, from the elusive common palm civet to the elegant blue-spotted fantail ray.

This is also Singapore's first ever crowd-sourced nature documentary, bringing together the photos and video footage volunteered by nature enthusiasts from all over Singapore to tell the story of Singapore's surprisingly rich natural heritage.

The clip was first featured during the Festival of Biodiversity, and is embedded on the right column of this blog for all to enjoy.

Singapore Species

noreply@blogger.com (Ivan) — Thu, 09 Aug 2012 06:41:00 +0000

It's National Day, and over the past week, the NParks Facebook page has been sharing photos of various animals and plants named after Singapore!

To celebrate National Day, we'll be sharing one species a day until 9 August that was named after or first described from Singapore. At the end of the series, you'll be surprised to find out about all the interesting flora and fauna that share our home.

For today, let's take a look at the Singapore Kopsia (Kopsia singapurensis)! This is a small tree that grows naturally in the freshwater swamp forest. We bet you didn't know that it can only be found in Singapore and Peninsular Malaysia! Its white flower has a red heart, displaying the colours reminiscent of the Singapore flag. Pretty cool, huh?

Could you tell that the Bulbophyllum singaporeanum is an orchid? It sure doesn't look like one of your typical orchids, right? This plant is easily recognised by its long, dark green leaves (about 30cm) and its beautiful pale purplish green flowers. Henry Nicholas Ridley, the first director of Singapore Botanic Gardens, described this species in 1896, but it was renamed in 1911 by Friedrich Richard Rudolf Schlechter as Bulbophyllum singaporeanum, in honour of the country where it was first discovered.

Many of us might be disgusted by this close-up photo of the Syndyas singaporensis, but did you know that this species of the long-legged fly was one of the 150 new species that Dr. Patrick Grootaert, a Belgian entomologist, discovered during his one-year stint to study mangrove insects?

His discoveries prove that mangroves in Singapore still harbour a wide variety of insects, many of which remain undescribed and new to science. It's amazing how much there is to discover in our island home. :-D

You've heard of 'Mao Shan Wang' durian, 'XO' durian, and durians with the D-prefix, but have you ever seen the Singapore Durian (Durio singaporensis)? It is a large forest tree that grows up to 40m in height. Found only in Singapore and Peninsular Malaysia, it is closely related to the tree of the well-loved commercial durian fruit. Unfortunately, the seeds of the Singapore Durian do not have much flesh and the fruits are also much smaller - only 10cm in size!

This tiny shrimp, AKA the Temasek Shrimp (Caridina temasek), is found only in the streams of the Central Catchment Nature Reserve. Possessing pincers that allow it to filter minute organisms found in the stream systems, it was described from Singapore in 1991. Subsequently, this shrimp has since been found in Peninsular Malaysia.

Mmm... Tempura for lunch, anyone? :-P

The Singapore population of this green tree snail has been recently described as a new subspecies, Amphidromus atricallosus temasek or Jade Tree Snail. Little is known about this tree-dwelling snail, but the main part of its diet is likely to consist of fungi or lichen growing on trees. The Jade Tree Snail is only found in older and less disturbed forests like those in the Central Catchment Nature Reserve and at Mandai.

The Singapore Vinegar Crab (Episesarma singaporense) was originally described from Singapore by Michael Tweedie. The Teochews used to pickle them in vinegar and salt, and eat them with congee. Yummy...

Also commonly known as the Tree-climbing Crab, the crab has been observed to climb trees to a height of more than six metres above water level.

The Singapore Fourline Blue (Nacaduba pavana singapura) is a fairly rare butterfly found mainly on the landward edge of mangrove swamps. The best place to spot this pretty butterfly is at Sungei Buloh Wetland Reserve, where its caterpillar host plant is found. The butterfly has a wingspan of about 30mm.

This energetic and sometimes noisy squirrel is native to Singapore. The Plantain Squirrel (Callosciurus notatus singapurensis) is commonly seen in our forests, parks and even urban areas. It lives in trees and often leaps from branch to branch. Its chirping calls are often mistaken for those emitted by birds.

We've come to our last NDay fun fact, which means NDay is finally here!!! Yippee~ (^_^)

These are just a few of the species named after Singapore; there are others like the Singapore freshwater crab (Johora singaporensis), the daisy sponge (Coelocarteria singaporensis), the orchid known as the Singapore Dendrobium (Dendrobium singaporense), and a parasitic fungus on plants (Dimerium singaporense) too!

Happy National Day everyone!

(Photos courtesy of the NParks Facebook page and the contributing photographers)

Singapore's living forests, reefs, seashores and more!

noreply@blogger.com (ria tan) — Thu, 19 Jul 2012 02:04:00 +0000

What lives in our forests? The latest issue of My Green Space, published by NParks, shares more on this and other fascinating work done for Singapore's biodiversity.

What happens during the quiet orgy in our waters when Singapore's corals mass spawn? Also more about Singapore's first marine expedition and the fabulous new book on Singapore's caterpillars!

A dedicated team of enthusiastic biodiversity surveyors devoted three years of their time to an ecological study on rainforest biodiversity, from 2008 to 2010.

Exciting finds from the forest surveys include the rediscovery of the White-spotted Cat Snake (Boiga drapiezii). It has not been seen in Singapore for more than 100 years! Another rediscovery was the Bicoloured Leaf-nosed Bat (Hipposideros bicolor). This species which feeds on insects had not been recorded in Singapore for more than 130 years! Read more in The Fragile Rainforests of Singapore by James Gan with photos by Dr Leong Tzi Ming.

In A Rare Glimpse into a Scientific Expedition, Jocelyne Sze shares what she saw and learnt from the Expedition. She says "From my time as a volunteer with CMBS, I learnt that knowing what animals can be found where is useful when planning which key areas require protection and conservation. I once thought that as an individual, there is little I can do to influence policies. But my experience with CMBS has made me believe that we can all contribute as citizen scientists and help care for our natural heritage."

More about the Mega Marine Survey and how ordinary people can join and make a difference for our marine biodiversity!

In A Spawning Phenomena, Jeffrey Low and Karenne Tun give a glimpse of what happens during this mysterious event. What forces drive the process? Is it simply a combination of lunar and tidal influence? Or are there other subtle factors involved? Find out more in the article!

The Fascinating World of Caterpillars by Khew Sin Khoon and Horace Tan with photos by Horace Tan, we get an introduction to their precious new book the Caterpillars of Singapore’s Butterflies.

Besides intriguing never-before-shared facts and photos about the mysterious life cycle of our butterflies, the book also shares other information. For example, how to set up a butterfly garden. The book shares tips on landscaping features that are necessary for creating a conducive environment for butterflies to survive. For instance, not many people may be aware that butterflies prefer humid conditions. Hence, it is important to include a water body in the garden. Read more about our Singapore butterflies on the Butterfly Circle blog and website.

Mandai mangroves, giant clams, coral spawning and more

noreply@blogger.com (ria tan) — Thu, 19 Jul 2012 01:11:00 +0000

The beautiful Mandai mangroves shows us how we can understand threats to mangroves in Singapore and beyond. We still have Giant clams and efforts are ongoing to conserve them.

Ordinary people helping to survey Mandai mangroves
as part of the Mega Marine Survey

Also, studies of coral spawning in Singapore and venomous fishes on Sentosa's recreational beaches. All this and more can be found in the latest issue of the Raffles Bulletin of Zoology which is a Special Memorial Issue Navjot S. Sodhi (1962–2011)

What can we learn from Mandai mangroves? Lots!

From the abstract: Vital for their diverse ecosystem services, Southeast Asian mangroves are the most biodiverse in the world and are critically threatened, yet they remain woefully understudied. A notable exception is Mandai mangrove in Northwest Singapore, a hotspot of research for decades, with an intensive contemporary research agenda. It provides not only a baseline of mangrove research for the region, but exemplifies the threats facing mangroves across Southeast Asia: changing sediments and currents, insect pests, genetic disconnection from other mangrove patches, land reclamation, and future sea level rise. Many of these threats are unique to mangrove ecosystems, but associated data gaps prohibit informed mangrove conservation across the region. Mandai mangrove is one of Southeast Asia’s few mangrove sites with the baseline and contemporary research capable of elucidating these broad threats to the region’s mangrove systems.

Read more in Mandai mangrove, Singapore: Lessons for the conservation of Southeast Asia’s mangroves. D. A. Friess, J. Phelps, R. C. Leong, W. K. Lee, A. K. S. Wee, N. Sivasothi, R. R. Y. Oh and E. L. Webb. [pdf, 1.84 MB] Also on the wild shores of singapore blog.

Giant clams in Singapore and how to save them

From the abstract: This review presents the history of giant clams (S.F. Tridacninae) in Singapore as derived from artifacts, primary and grey literature, museum collections, and anecdotal evidence. Archaeological finds from the 14th century include giant clam valves of at least two species: Tridacna crocea (Lamarck, 1819) and T. squamosa (Lamarck, 1819). An 1847 publication lists T. gigas (Linnaeus, 1758) in Singapore, a species that is absent from later inventories. Hippopus hippopus (Linnaeus, 1758) and T. maxima (Röding, 1798) also used to be found on the reefs surrounding Singapore’s Southern Islands, bringing the total number of recorded species to five. Early literature describes how inhabitants of 19th century Singapore relied heavily on fishing and collection of shells for food and trade and that this activity was already impacting clam stocks. Exploitation was probably the main cause of giant clam decline until the 1960s when intense coastal development became an additional contributor. Contemporary surveys of 29 reef sites show very low densities of T. crocea and T. squamosa and a complete absence of H. hippopus, T. gigas, and T. maxima. Very little research was conducted on giant clams in Singapore until 1998 when a mariculture project was initiated. This was succeeded by a programme of basic research that produced papers on mariculture, behaviour, shell morphology, reproduction, and conservation; here we present an outline of some of the more important findings. Finally, we discuss conservation strategies designed to ensure that giant clams will not disappear from Singapore’s reefs altogether.

Read more in Giant clams (Mollusca: Bivalvia: Tridacninae) in Singapore: History, research and conservation. M. L. Neo and Peter A. Todd. [pdf, 1.07 MB]. Also on the wild shores of singapore blog.

Coral spawning in Singapore!

From the abstract: The gametogenic cycle of Platygyra pini was investigated at three sites around Singapore’s southern islands from Mar.2001 to Apr.2002. Equatorial locations, such as Singapore, typically experience moderate annual environmental variation. This has lead to the suggestion that the amplitude of environmental variation at the equator is insufficient to provide reliable cues to synchronise reproduction in marine invertebrates. However, distinct and predictable seasonal patterns of sea surface temperature and rainfall occur in Singapore as a result of the Southeast Asian Monsoon system. Platygyra pini had a seasonal pattern of gametogenesis, with maturation of gametes and spawning occurring predominantly in April. A second, smaller peak in reproductive activity occurred in November suggesting that some colonies also spawn at this time. The major spawning for this species followed a period of rising sea surface temperatures and occurred after the period of heaviest rainfall. While a correlation between environmental fluctuations and spawning timing is not proof of a causal link, these data do indicate that the amplitude of change in environmental parameters such as temperature in Singapore is sufficient to provide a seasonal cue for reproduction and spawning synchrony.

Read more in Reproductive seasonality of the reef building coral Platygyra pini on Singapore’s reefs. James R. Guest, L. M. Chou and Beverly Goh. [pdf, 6.40 MB].

How many stonefishes are found on Sentosa? And does culling venomous fishes work?

From the abstract: The effectiveness of culling as a method for population control has received much controversy over the last few decades. A five year study investigating the effectiveness of removing venomous fishes along beaches of a popular resort island to provide improved public safety found that six venomous fish families contributed to 44.6% of total fish abundance, and that siganids and plotosids were the most abundant among venomous fishes. Though no strong correlations were found between venomous fish captures and envenomation occurrences, there appeared to be a significant decrease in venomous fish abundances during the fifth and last year of sampling which coincided with decreased envenomation events. It is suggested that the increasing visitorship over the last five years plays an important factor on incidences and that continued surveys will yield greater insight into the effectiveness of this method.

Read more in Controlled culling of venomous marine ﬁshes along Sentosa island beaches: A case study of public safety management in the marine environment of Singapore. Jeffrey T. B. Kwik. [pdf, 523 KB]

This is just a selection of the many papers found in the latest issue of the Raffles Bulletin of Zoology which is a Special Memorial Issue Navjot S. Sodhi (1962–2011)

Secretive squirrel, orchids rediscovered, corals studied and more

noreply@blogger.com (ria tan) — Tue, 10 Jul 2012 01:28:00 +0000

We learn more about the elusive shrew-faced squirrel that lives in our forest.

Plus lots more discoveries and studies of Singapore's amazing plants and animals, on land and sea. All in the latest slew of papers on Nature in Singapore of the Raffles Museum of Biodiversity Research.

A study of the shrew-faced squirrel (Rhinosciurus laticaudatus) compiles past records and recent sightings and reports the status and distribution of this secretive animal in Singapore. Prior to 2011, all recent confirmed records were from the Bukit Timah Nature Reserve. Photographic evidence of its presence in the Central Catchment Nature Reserve is presented.

More about this in Lim, N. T-L. & A. W. M. Yeo, 2012. Records of the shrew-faced squirrel, Rhinosciurus laticaudatus (Mammalia: Rodentia: Sciuridae), in Singapore. Nature in Singapore, 5: 165–170. [PDF, 1.04 MB]

A diversity of corals can settle on our artificial seawalls

At the Singapore Armed Forces Yacht Club in Changi, the diversity and distribution of scleractinian corals growing on a seawall were investigated. The 1,762 scleractinian colonies recorded are represented by 37 genera from 14 families. Generic richness, abundance, and evenness were lower in the deeper belts. The majority of the colonies in the marina were juveniles smaller than 10 cm across, indicating that coral recruitment is an active, ongoing process, and that such environments, albeit highly modified, can function to support scleractinian diversity. Highly modified habitats resulting from coastal development could facilitate the re-establishment of biological communities.

More about this in Tan, Y. Z., C. S. L. Ng & L. M. Chou, 2012. Natural colonisation of a marina seawall by scleractinian corals along Singapore's east coast. Nature in Singapore, 5: 177–183. [PDF, 648 KB]

How many different kinds of catfish do we have in Singapore?

A study has verified the presence of nine ariid catfish species from Singapore waters based on museum material. They are Arius cf. gagora, Arius leptonotacanthus, Arius oetik, Hemiarius sona, Hexanematichthys sagor, Netuma bilineata, Osteogeneiosus militaris, Plicofollis argyropleuron, and Plicofollis nella. Arius cf. gagora and Netuma bilineata are new records for Singapore, while Hemiarius sona is recorded for the first time in Singapore in more than a century. The occurrence of Cryptarius truncatus in Singapore waters is considered doubtful.

More about them in Ng, H. H., 2012. The ariid catfishes of Singapore. Nature in Singapore, 5: 211–222. [PDF, 938 KB]

They're not bluffing!

The blue-green facial bands in two species of mangrove crabs, Perisesarma eumolpe and Perisesarma indiarum are known to be important in mate and/or species recognition and are believed to convey the physical ‘quality’ of the individual. For colour to be an effective indicator of quality, there has to be a direct production cost of the colour. Carotenoid-based pigments in animals fulfill these criteria. Being unable to biosynthesize carotenoids de novo, animals rely on dietary supply to achieve carotenoid-based pigmentation; therefore their presence can reflect foraging ability. Facial band tissues of Perisesarma eumolpe and Perisesarma indiarum were extracted and analysed for carotenoids using High Performance Liquid Chromatography (HPLC). The results confirm the presence of carotenoids in the facial bands of both species.

More about this in Wang, W. Y. & P. A. Todd, 2012. Evidence for carotenoid pigments in the facial bands of two mangrove crab species from Singapore. Nature in Singapore, 5: 159–164. [PDF, 358 KB]

Tree-holes and damselflies

Water collecting in tree holes are crucial for some special animals. The large and distinctive damselfly, Pericnemis stictica is scarce in Singapore. It is a forest-dependent species and has been sporadically witnessed in shady understorey in close proximity to phytotelms (small water bodies contained by plants from ancient Greek: ‘phytos’ = plant; ‘telma’ = pond), especially water-filled tree holes. Other forms of phytotelms include water collected in leaf axils, buttress pans or bamboo stumps.

More about it in Ngiam, R. W. J. & T. M. Leong, 2012. Larva of the phytotelm-breeding damselfly, Pericnemis stictica Selys from forests in Singapore (Odonata: Zygoptera: Coenagrionidae). Nature in Singapore, 5: 103–115. [PDF, 2.46 MB]

Rediscovery of 'extinct' orchids

Trichotosia velutina was presumed nationally extinct in Singapore, having no recent sightings or collections since 1892. It was most recently encountered and rediscovered in the Nee Soon Swamp Forest, and assigned the national conservation status of Critically Endangered.

More about it in Ang, W. F., C. K. Yeo, A. F. S. L. Lok, A. Angkasa, P. X. Ng & H. T. W. Tan, 2012. Rediscovery of Trichotosia velutina (Lodd. ex Lindl.) Kraenzl. (Orchidaceae) in Singapore. Nature in Singapore, 5: 199–204. [PDF, 1.02 MB]

Callostylis pulchella previously thought to be extinct in Singapore, was recently rediscovered in the Nee Soon Swamp Forest. As such, it has recently been assigned the new national conservation status of critically endangered as it is currently only known from one locality in Singapore.

Lok, A. F. S. L., W. F. Ang & C. K. Yeo, 2012. Rediscovery of Callostylis pulchella (Lindl.) S. C. Chen & Z. H. Tsi (Orchidaceae) in Singapore. Nature in Singapore, 5: 205–209. [PDF, 288 KB]

A new Hoya species recorded

Hoya caudata is recently discovered as a new record to the native flora of Singapore in Nee Soon Swamp Forest. The total number of Hoya species now stands at 11. A key to Singapore's Hoya species is also included.

More about it in Rodda, M. & W. F. Ang, 2012. Hoya caudata Hook. f. (Apocynaceae), a new record for Singapore, and keys to the Hoya species of Singapore. Nature in Singapore, 5: 123–128. [PDF, 700 KB]

This is just a selection of some of the many fascinating paper on the Nature in Singapore website of the Raffles Museum of Biodiversity Research, the National University of Singapore.

Launch of Private Lives: Rainforest and the DNA website

noreply@blogger.com (ria tan) — Tue, 10 Jul 2012 01:28:00 +0000

Last week, a new book ‘Private Lives: An Exposé of Singapore’s Rainforests’ was launched by the Raffles Museum of Biodiversity Research.

Here's more about the launch from the RMBR News blog.

This new book is especially timely, after 20 years of the Rio Summit, and reflects well on Singapore—the pioneer of internationally accepted Cities Biodiversity Index. The book documents the rich biodiversity of Singapore’s extant rainforest that safeguards a natural heritage completely disproportionate with its small size. It showcases what precious diversity we still have and the many efforts that have been made to conserve it. Edited by four well known biologists from NUS (Darren Yeo, Kelvin Lim and Wang Luan Keng) and NTU (Shawn Lum), there are chapters by 19 scientists and naturalists, all are experts in their field, with a foreword by the Ambassador-At-Large, Professor Tommy Koh, one of the architects of the original Rio Convention. Aqs with the other books in the series, the many interesting facts inside are presented in a lively, easy-to-read fashion for the general public and students, and augmented with some 600 colour photographs.

Retailing at $22 for the paperback and $35 for the hardcover, this book and other titles of Private Lives is available at RMBR, NUS Co-cop, Nature’s Niche, Select Bookstore, and the Library Shop at the Singapore Botanic Gardens. Students, RMBR volunteers, NUS and ExxonMobil staff can purchase the books at 10% discount (available only at RMBR or through mail order at http://exxonmobil.rafflesmuseum.net/)

Also launched was the Digital Nature Archive of Singapore, known as DNA for short, is created to provide a free, searchable digital database of Singapore’s natural heritage, i.e., its flora, fauna and natural habitats. It intends to capture Singapore’s natural history records, including the rich biodiversity archives resident in the university, its professors and many associates over the years. It is a library of Singapore’s natural memories and will serve as a valuable resource for students and naturalists alike.

Read more about the book and the internet resource on the RMBR News blog and about the launch event.

26 May (Sat): Conserving our Biodiversity Symposium at the Festival of Biodiversity

noreply@blogger.com (ria tan) — Fri, 18 May 2012 08:10:00 +0000

Come for this Symposium to learn more about the importance of our biodiversity and the volunteer action for nature in Singapore!

Click for larger view

This event is part of the Festival of Biodiversity. There have also been changes to the dates and timing of other talks scheduled for the Festival.

Programme for the Symposium

9am Registration
9.30am Welcome address by Mr Poon Hong Yuen, CEO NParks
9.35am Keynote address by Dr Shawn Lum, President Nature Society (Singapore) "The importance of nature and our Nature Reserves in Singapore"
10am Teabreak
10.30am Ms Tan Beng Chiak, Lead Teacher Raffles Girls' School (Secondary) " The Cowshed that became a WELL"
11am Mr Liak Teng Lit, Group CEO Alexandra Health "Enhancing Biodiversity at a Hospital Project - The Khoo Teck Puat Hospital's Experience"
11.15am Mr Ching Youyi, Market Executive Keppel Singmarine "Keppel Volunteers - Diving for Biodiversity"
11.30am Mr N. Sivasothi, Coordinator International Coastal Cleanup Singapore "Trash on the Beach - 21 years of Community Action on the Shores of Singapore"
11.45am Wrap up discussion
12noon End

To attend the Symposium, please register with Ms Jocelyne Sze at biodiversityfestival.nparks@gmail.com

Venue: Function Hall, Botany Centre, Singapore Botanic Gardens map
Time: 9am-12noon
Dress: Smart casual
Website: http://festivalofbiodiversitysingapore.wordpress.com/

Biodiversity for kids during the June holidays!

noreply@blogger.com (ria tan) — Mon, 14 May 2012 01:54:00 +0000

Exciting nature activities for kids are lined up for the June school holidays! Lots of fun ways to discover and enjoy Singapore's biodiversity!

Kids can easily spot all kinds of interesting wildlife
from the Pasir Ris mangrove boardwalk.

Here's highlights of some of the many exciting nature events for kids during the school holidays. Many for free!

FREE EVENTS

26-27 May: Festival of Biodiversity
This massive Festival brings together the passionate nature community to share the mind-boggling biodiversity from our forests to seashores, even our backyards and parks! FREE film screening, talks, exhibitions, games and more!

26 May (Sat): "Hardy Driftwood in A Wetlands Adventure"
The Hardy Driftwood animation series is set in situations familiar to children and highlights the adverse impact seemingly harmless actions can have on our environment. The series encourages the children to take positive actions to protect the environment through simple and practical solutions within their abilities. For kids aged 4 years and above. Free, pre-registration required. This event is part of the Festival of Biodiversity.

26 May (Sat): Prawn and Fish Demo at Sungei Buloh
Embark on this journey back to the past, where Sungei Buloh Wetland Reserve used to be prawn and fish farms. Learn about the importance of mangroves as a spawning place and nursery for prawns and other life. 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. Suitable for older children.

2 Jun (Sat): Free Pasir Ris Mangrove boardwalk tour with the Naked Hermit Crabs and 30 Jun (Sat)
There are fascinating mangroves at Pasir Ris Park! Easily explored through the boardwalks and it's open even at night! Here, we are sure to see lots of crazy tree climbing crabs, delightful giant mudskippers, cool monitor lizards and nesting herons. As the sun sets, we might spot some nocturnal animals like watersnakes. Suitable for kids and families, small groups only. Pre-registration required.

2 Jun (Sat): HeART for Nature - FREE workshop for kids and 9 Jun (Sat)
This FREE art workshop helps children to delve deep into their hearts to express nature in various themed art activities like drawing, fingerprinting, origami, puppet making. The children will also learn about our natural heritage. Suitable for children aged 5 to 8 years (with parental supervision). Pre-registration online.

16 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. Pre-registration required.

16 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 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. Suitable for kids and families, small groups only. Pre-registration required.

OTHER EVENTS

30 May (Wed): Storytime with Sara at Jacob Ballas Children’s Garden
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. $6 per child and $6 per accompanying adult.

2 Jun (Sat): Adventure with Plants - Sara at the Evolution Garden and 22 Jun (Fri)
In this guided tour for kids, join a giant prehistoric dinosaur, Sara, who lost her friends in the Evolution Garden. Travel back through time with Sara and help her search for her squirrel friends. By going through the thematic trail, you will also learn about some ancient plants which emerged on earth millions of years ago! Suitable for children in K1 – P2 levels. $8.50 per child (includes $2.50 "Adventure with Plants, Sara at the Evolution Garden" workbook) and $6 per accompanying adult.

3 Jun (Sun): NSS Kids' Fun at Tampines Eco-Green
Traipse across the open green grasslands and poke around the ponds of Tampines Eco-Green. It is filled with birds, butterflies and dragonflies. Learn how its habitats have a place in the great web of life. We may spot the Asian Golden Weaver, a beautiful escapee caged bird that is nesting in the park's Acacia trees. What's wrong with these foreign plants and animals? Why are we worried about them? Listen to their stories and find out. For children 4 to 12, $5 per child (NSS member) or $10 per child (non-member), pre-registration required.

8-15 Jun: Wiggles and Giggles - Singapore International Children's Film Festival
A combination of nature-themed films and guided tours at the Jacob Ballas Children's Garden, with 7 nature-themed and eco-friendly films paired with a guided tour of the gardens at the Jacob Ballas Children’s. The festival aims to provide kids with educational, enriching and value-affirming content through film and provide families with an enjoyable and enriching cultural experience. For children 3 to 9 years, $12.50 each (excluding ticketing fees), pre-registration required.

9 Jun (Sat): Young Naturalists Passport Camp at Sungei Buloh
This one day camp encompasses a series of fun-filled and educational indoor and outdoor learning of the wetlands and nature conservation issues through worksheets, nature walks and hands-on activities. Children will earn a stamp for every completed activity, and a full collection of stamps will earn them a series of cloth badges. Limited to 40 children between the age of 6-10 years old. Pre-registration required.

16 Jun (Sat): A Trail Of Colours - guided tour for kids and 20 Jun (Wed)
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. $6 per child and $6 per accompanying adult. Pre-registration required.

You can also explore on your own! Check out the many DIY Trail Guides on the NParks website. Explore the new Berlayar Creek boardwalk, check out our heritage trees, visit Pulau Ubin and more! More about our wild places on wildsingapore. A tip to avoid the crowds on school holiday weekends, come early. That's when wildlife is more active anyway. And leave before it gets too hot.

MORE school holiday activities on the wildsingapore happenings blog.

19 May (Sat): Raffles Museum Children's Open House

noreply@blogger.com (ria tan) — Mon, 07 May 2012 07:50:00 +0000

Don't miss the very last Open House at the Raffles Museum of Biodiversity Research! A great opportunity for kids and people of all ages to learn more about Singapore's biodiversity and natural history.

Rick Leong enthralls kids at the 2011 Open House.

Join guided tours with a behind-the-scenes look at the museum. Lots of other activities like face painting, make your own museum button, masks and Be a Young Palaeontologist (that's dinosaur specialist!)

This will be the last Open House before the museum moves to its brand new location!

Time: 9am-5pm
Venue: Raffles Museum of Biodiversity Research, National University of Singapore map and more details on how to get there. Free shuttle bus from Kent Ridge MRT to the Museum.
Website and contact: http://rmbr.nus.edu.sg/CS2012/

Great Grasshoppers of Singapore!

noreply@blogger.com (ria tan) — Fri, 04 May 2012 08:59:00 +0000

Singapore has some amazing forest grasshoppers! They're not all just brown or green. Some can be quite colourful!

There's now a new eBook on some of these fascinating creatures. It's available for free download!

Tan Ming Kai's awesome eBook on Orthoptera in the Bukit Timah and Central Catchment Nature Reserves (Part 1): Suborder Caelifera is now available for free download from the Raffles Museum of Biodiversity Research website.

The book includes preliminary results from 12 months of survey and collections between Oct 2010 and Sep 2011 and an inventory and morphological keys for different families and subfamilies of the Caelifera.

Learn more about grasshoppers that look like dead leaves!

And this one hardly looks like a grasshopper at first glance!

There's MORE amazing grasshoppers in this new publication! Check out Tan Ming Kai's eBook now!