In a fast-moving city like Singapore, biodiversity naturally requires much effort to maintain. With recent growing conservation efforts, safe to say we’re still blessed to be surrounded by nature - many of which, in fact, are located just a stone’s throw away. These spaces, like natural reserves, are a breath of fresh air and a way for us to witness some spectacular wildlife for years to come. For a glimpse of the best, here are six places you should visit to catch wildlife in Singapore!
1. Bukit Timah Nature Reserve
Contrary to popular belief, greenery isn’t entirely hard to find in Singapore. Officially recognised as an ASEAN Heritage Park in 2011, Bukit Timah Nature Reserve is a must-go for locals and tourists alike. By virtue of Singapore’s location on the equatorial belt, the reserve has one of the richest and most diverse ecological systems. In other words, you’ll find an impressive selection of plant and animal species right here.
If you’re lucky, you might even spot a handsome brown bird with a dusty orange head that makes a sweet singing call. That's the Straw-headed bulbul, and it’s one of Singapore’s famed feathered friends. Aside from that, be sure to catch other interesting creatures like the Malayan Pangolin (Manis javanica), Malayan Colugo (Galeopterus variegatus), Plantain Squirrel (Callosciurus notatus) and Long-tailed Macaque.
One other cool experience, of course, is the hike up the hill itself. The peak of Bukit Timah Hill is 163 metres. Even at a leisurely pace, the trail typically takes approximately 45 minutes to an hour to complete. Doable as that might sound, remember to pack ample snacks and water to keep you fueled on the journey towards the summit!
Address:
177 Hindhede Drive, Singapore 589333
How to get there:
MRT: The closest station is Beauty World Station (DT5) on the Downtown Line. Upon arrival, take exit A. That will bring you out onto Upper Bukit Timah Road. The walk takes roughly 12 minutes. Enter using the trails when you spot the Visitor’s Centre.
Bus: There are a couple of buses you can take from Beauty World Station. At Exit B, hop on 170, 184 or 75. Alight after six stops at Jalan Gali Batu. You’ll arrive within seven minutes.
Operating Hours:
Monday to Sunday - 7:00am to 7:00pm
2. Pulau Ubin
Located in the northeastern part of Singapore, Pulau Ubin has long been a hotspot for nature lovers. Not only does it provide a window to Singapore’s yesteryears, it’s also been estimated to have over 780 native plants, over 200 birds and butterflies, as well as close to 90 mammals, reptiles and amphibians. It’s a great spot for nature lovers, especially due to its natural kampong (Malay for village) rustic charms. A few standout creatures, of course, are the Greater Mouse Deer and bats like the Ashy Barred Eagle Owl - which are not found on mainland Singapore.
Another significant point of attraction in this region is the Chek Jawa Wetlands. It boasts six different habitats including sandy beach, rocky beach, seagrass lagoon, coral rubble, mangroves and coastal forest, and is known to have one of the richest ecosystems! Plus, it’s home to two mangrove heritage trees - namely the Perepat and Mangrove Apple, which are possibly two of the biggest in the city.
Address:
Pulau Ubin, 508418
How to get there:
Board bus 59 at Exit B of Tampines East Station to Changi Village Bus Interchange. Take a bumboat from Changi Point Ferry Terminal, which will take you directly to Pulau Ubin Jetty. The ride costs S$4 and takes approximately 10 minutes. These operate from 6:00am to 7:00pm.
Operating hours:
24 hours
3. Changi Beach
The next one’s a hidden gem for you east-side lovers. Unbeknownst to some, intertidal marine creatures actually live on the shores of Changi Beach—particularly along Changi Point Boardwalk. It’s best to embark on an intertidal walk during the lowest of tides—ideally when it’s at 0.2 metres or below. Needless to say, these creatures would be submerged during high tide. Before you make your way down, simply check out the official tide timings and predictions here.
On days with low tide, you’ll get to witness some colourful displays of sea cucumbers—some vibrant pink; others yellow and even stripey. There’s also sea anemones and starfishes like the Biscuit Sea Star that looks pretty much like Patrick from Spongebob, except that it’s not pale pink (and it doesn’t speak, for obvious reasons).
To enjoy the full experience, consider joining a guided intertidal tour where you’ll learn interesting nuggets of information with the help of a professional. There’s no question that you’ll get your feet wet while there. Here’s a pro tip: Bring a pair of wet shoes (or boots) to protect yourself from sharp rocks and shells.
Address:
7A Gosport Rd, Singapore 509710
How to get there:
Take the MRT to Tanah Merah Station (EW4). At Exit B, hop on bus 2 and alight at Blk 5. Walk for 4 minutes to arrive at your destination.
Operating hours:
24 hours
4. Sungei Buloh Wetland Reserve
Sungei Buloh Wetland Reserve is home to some of the world’s rarest mangroves. Interestingly enough the park is also a stopover point for many migratory birds like the Pacific Golden Plover and the Asian Dowitcher. Annually, these beautiful creatures fly in from the northern hemisphere particularly to take shelter from the cold, winter months.
It’s one reason why you’ll find many enthusiasts—like photographers, keeping watch and ready to shoot their shots.
Birds aside, it’s also a permanent home to many of Singapore’s native mudland creatures—including the Malayan Water Monitor Lizards and Banded Archerfish. For families looking to spend some well-deserved bonding time, this makes a great place; even for little ones. These boardwalks, in fact, make it convenient for them to check out the animal life there.
Address:
60 Kranji Way, #01-00 Singapore 739453
How to get there:
Board bus 925 from Kranji MRT Station. Alight at Kranji Reservoir Park B after 11 stops. The journey takes about 11 minutes.
Operating hours:
Monday to Sunday - 7:00am to 7:00pm
5. Coney Island Park
Besides being rich in history, Coney Island Park houses a wide variety of habitats. It consists of coastal forests, grasslands, mangroves, and casuarina woodlands. These areas are home to a wide variety of fauna and flora, some of which are critically endangered.
There are a few rare plants at the park that are presumed nationally extinct in the wild. This gives us an opportunity to learn more about our ecological environment and appreciate the limited green spaces we have.
As of now, the island is mostly left untouched, so expect to see native macaques and other wildlife, such as snakes and birds—including the resident baya weavers residing in their natural habitat. You might even catch a glimpse of otters hanging around too!
Address:
Punggol Promenade Nature Walk, 829325
How to get there:
From Punggol interchange, hop on Bus 84 to Punggol Point Park/Punggol Settlement. Walk about 500m east along the Punggol Promenade Nature Walk to get to Coney Island Park West Entrance.
Operating hours:
Monday to Sunday - 7:00am to 7:00pm
6. Central Catchment Nature Reserve
Situated in the centre of Singapore is The Central Catchment Nature Reserve—the city’s largest nature reserve. It spans across 2,880 hectares—that’s about a little more than 7,000 football fields! As of now, over 200 bird species have been observed in the nature reserve. Although rare and elusive, the Central Catchment is also home to Pangolins, the Slow Loris, Mouse Deer and even the alluring King cobra and Pythons! For your own safety, just be sure to stay on the designated trails.
The existing habitats also present a magnificent diversity of plants that can be typically hard to find.
For hikers and trail seekers, do keep a lookout for The TreeTop Walk too. It’ll likely be the highlight among several long hiking routes in MacRitchie. One key (and most picture-worthy) spot is the 250m suspension bridge that connects the two highest points in Macritchie, and the Jelutong Tower, offering an unobstructed overview of the forest.
Address:
601 Island Club Road (Located close to Singapore Island Country Club, via Venus Drive)
How to get there:
The following buses take you there: 165, 52, 855 and 923. Alight at Upper Thomson Road.
Operating hours:
Monday to Sunday - 7:00am to 7:00pm
As we gasp in awe at the architectural supremacy of the likes of MBS and wince at the ever ongoing construction works of our island home, we sometimes forget we share our home with hundreds of other species. On that note, why not take some time to indulge in nature and greet some critters? You’ll be surprised at the wonders that it does for our mood and health.
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