Singapore has plenty of nicely maintained parks but did you know that we have wetlands too. These wetlands in Singapore can be found around the island and play an important role.
According to Ramsar, the body which organises World Wetlands Day on 2 February each year, wetlands play an important role in removing pollutants, conserving land and providing an environment for animal species such as reptiles, amphibians, water birds and mammals.
Wetlands in Singapore
Pay a visit to one of the wetlands in Singapore and you would be able to appreciate its role as a habitat for animals, large and small.
Here are some wetlands in Singapore that you can visit.
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1. Keppel Discovery Wetlands
Recreated within Singapore Botanic Gardens is the Keppel Discovery Wetlands. It is a restoration of the forest wetland ecosystem that once existed in the vicinity. It provides a more natural spot within the well-manicured Gardens. You can also join tours to learn more about life amongst the wetlands. Read more about Keppel Discovery Wetlands.
2. Rasau Walk, Jurong Lake Gardens
Walk along the edge of Jurong Lake at the red-coloured, 300-metre long Rasau Walk boardwalk. The meandering boardwalk at Jurong Lake Gardens passes by partially submerged plants, part of the freshwater swamp ecosystem. South of Rasau Walk are the Neram Streams, naturalised water channels that flow into Jurong Lake. Read more about Jurong Lake Gardens.
3. Kranji Marshes
At the Kranji Marshes, the songs of birds filled the air, occasionally punctuated by croaks and other interesting sounds. Keep your eyes peeled during the visit and you may even be able to spot woodpeckers and orioles at this nature spot. Read more about Kranji Marshes.
4. Tampines Eco Green
Tampines Eco Green’s ecosystems include secondary forests, freshwater wetland, vegetated swales and grasslands. Venture to one of the bird hides along the water bodies and see if you are able to spot some of the water fowl along the water’s edge. Read more about Tampines Eco Green.
5. Sungei Buloh Wetland Reserve
No list of wetlands in Singapore would be complete without mentioning Sungei Buloh Wetland Reserve. Located in the northwest of Singapore, Sungei Buloh Wetland Reserve, with its tidal pools and mangrove forests are a haven for wildlife. If you are lucky, you may even be able to spot otters in the water and the famous Sungei Buloh crocodile! Also, be sure to pay a visit to the mangrove boardwalk while at Sungei Buloh. Read more about Sungei Buloh Wetlands Reserve.
Besides the locations above, other wetlands in Singapore can be found at Pasir Ris Park and at offshore islands such as Pulau Ubin and St John’s Island. There is also a Kingfisher Wetlands at Gardens by the Bay, located in the midst of the city.
World Wetlands Day
Singapore’s wetlands serve as a reminder for us to preserve our local biodiversity and natural heritage. Let’s appreciate the biodiversity found locally and care for the wetlands around Singapore.
