Vol
1 No 2
Sep 94
A park for all: objectives of
the park and
about its construction
Homes of
their Own:
the atlas moth
and white-
breasted
waterhen
Research
at the Park:
bird banding,
bird census,
feeding ecology studies
Update on
the study of insectivorous
bats at the Park
Sponsorship towards Nature Conservation
and Education
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 A
Park
for All
On 6 December 1993, the Park was officially opened by Prime Minister Goh
Chok Tong. In his opening speech, he spoke of the government's commitment
to nature conservation which is evident in the setting aside of 5% of land
towards the cause. Viewed against the demanding needs of housing and economic
development, this is indeed a luxury.
Sungei Buloh was originally zoned as part
of an agro-technology park. However, in 1989, the Ministry of National
Development designated it as a sanctuary for wild birds and as a nature
park. Between 1989 and 1993, it was developed so that it would be
more conducive for migratory shorebirds to roost and feed in. Hides
and screens for observation of birds were also constructed for use
by both birdwatching enthusiasts and the general public.
A large part of the Park used to be mangrove swamp. Much of this was
cleared by early settlers who converted the mudflats into prawn and
fish ponds.
In the course
of development, small ponds were enlarged to form bigger irregular-shaped
ones which were more suitable for the roosting and feeding habits
of shorebirds. Islands were also created in parts of the ponds. They
serve as safe feeding and resting areas when the tide enters the ponds.
During the period of development, fear and apprehension were expressed
by some quarters. |
THE
OBJECTIVES
of the Park
CONSERVATION
To function as an important site in the East Asian Migratory Flyway
for waders and to maximise the carrying capacity of the reserve for
birds and other wildlife.
EDUCATION
To provide education of the natural sciences, in the local context,
through the natural and diverse interest within the reserve.
RECREATION
To provide an alternative form of recreation to encourage appreciation
of the beauty and diversity of wildlife.
RESEARCH
To contribute to ornithological and biological knowledge regionally
and internationally. |
 Some
groups felt that it was detrimental to the visiting bird population and
that the works frightened away the feathered visitors. Development works
were done in phases so that birds were not devoid of feeding grounds.
It has been four years since then and the Park is delighted to say that
the number of species of birds sighted has not diminished. Instead, it
has increased from 126 species in 1990 to the present 169.
Unlike
man, most birds do not store food. If they are not sufficiently fed, they
will not be able to fly the migratory route or withstand harsh conditions
and will also easily fall prey to predators. As such, they seek safe feeding
grounds. And they return to these places if they sense there is no threat
there.
Whether or not birds will continue to visit the Park depends on how visitors
treat them. If visitors disturb them and behave in a manner which causes
them to fear, these birds may choose to go somewhere else instead. And
if other suitable habitats are destroyed, their survival would be threatened.
It is the aim of the Park that conservation works hand in hand with education
and recreation. It is hoped that Singaporeans and other visitors will
appreciate the essence of the Park and share our sentiment that one of
life's pleasures is in watching birds and other wildlife in their natural
habitats. If these are achieved, the role of the Park would have been
fulfilled and the setting aside of prime land as a nature park in land-scarce
Singapore would have been worth the economic sacrifice.
Your
visit to the Park
Throughout the year, visitors can expect to see mangrove and resident
birds like kingfishers, sunbirds, herons and bitterns. In addition, mangrove
wildlife like crabs and shellfish can be seen crawling on the tree trunks
on basking in the mudflates at low tide. From September to March, look
out for migratory birds, in particular shorebirds or waders. November,
December and January are the best months for watching them. Patience and
silence are pre-requisites to catching a glimpse of some of these fascinating
inhabitants of the wetlands.
In addition, we would like to advise visitors of a code of conduct that
should be observed so that everyone can enjoy the day spent there.
 As
a nature park, the reserve is first and foremost a home to plants and
animals and it is important that their needs are respected. For example,
picking of leaves, flowers and fruit are forbidden in the Park. Such actions
damage plants. In addition, uncontrolled picking results in abuse. Uncommon
species may become extinct locally.
Another rule relates to the control of noise within the Park. Shouting,
singing and loud talking disturb wildlife as well as other visitors' enjoyment.
When intimidated, wildlife goes into hiding. Nature enthusiasts who visit
to experience the sights and sounds of the wild will therefore be sorely
disappointed when they cannot see the occasional water monitor, bittern,
or listen to the quarrel of two White-breasted Waterhens. It must be remembered
that the Park is a refuge for 'wildlife'.
Pets are not allowed in the Park because they may create disturbance.
For example, dogs may bark and chase after wildlife.
 And
do remember that 'poaching' is an offence punishable by law and poachers
will be fined.
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