Latest news with #BirdParadise
Straits Times
7 days ago
- Entertainment
- Straits Times
Fun With Kids: Peranakan-inspired workshops, $4 cable car rides for two, new Monopoly S'pore edition
Sign up now: Get ST's newsletters delivered to your inbox Until Aug 31, local residents can enjoy a round-trip cable car ride for two people at $4 on the Sentosa Line, where the cabins are adorned with Peranankan-inspired designs. SINGAPORE – Make family time all the more special with these ideas and activities. Peranakan-inspired workshops; $2 cable car ride Learn to make ang ku kueh, ondeh-ondeh and kuih dadar – using polymer clay, that is. Join artist Nur Rashidah Khalid, known for her miniature food crafts on Instagram account Sherry's Minis, for the Tiny Traditions workshop. You and your children will create non-edible miniature clay kueh to take home as a magnet or brooch. Rashidah's two sessions on Aug 30 are part of a Peranakan-inspired workshop series curated by Mount Faber Leisure Group to celebrate the 10th anniversary of Singapore Cable Car's Sentosa Line. Held at the Siloso Point Cable Car Station, each hands-on class is 90 minutes and costs $40.50 a person, which includes a round trip on the Sentosa Line. Kids must be at least six years old and accompanied by a paying adult. Learn to create non-edible miniature clay kueh from artist Nur Rashidah Khalid. PHOTO: SHERRY'S MINIS The Gunong Sayang Association, which promotes Peranakan culture, will also lead two different classes on Aug 31. At its Manek Magic workshop, you will learn the time-honoured art of embellishing the kasut manek (beaded slippers). Alternatively, engage your senses in Scents Of Sayang, a session focused on crafting bunga rampay. This potpourri of flowers, pandan leaves and herbs is a traditional gift at Peranakan and Malay weddings. Artisans of Gunong Sayang Association will guide you and your kids on the traditional art of Peranakan beading. PHOTO: GUNONG SAYANG ASSOCIATION To mark its 10th anniversary, cable car cabins on the Sentosa Line are adorned with Peranakan-inspired designs, featuring colourful motifs reminiscent of Koon Seng Road's iconic shophouses. Until Aug 31, Singapore citizens and local residents can enjoy promotions on the Sentosa Line: a round-trip ride for two people costs $4 (usual price: $17 an adult) and one-day unlimited rides for two are at $14 (usual price: $27 an adult). Sentosa island admission is not included. Go to for details. New Monopoly Singapore edition Landmarks such as Jewel Changi Airport and Bird Paradise have made their way onto the revamped Monopoly Singapore edition board game. PHOTO: HASBRO The Monopoly Singapore edition gets a reboot, aligning with the nation's progress. This latest version of the classic board game introduces new landmarks such as Jewel Changi Airport and Bird Paradise, and updated MRT stations such as Marine Parade on the Thomson-East Coast Line. Pity that while S.E.A. Aquarium is included, it has not yet been updated with its new name Singapore Oceanarium, which opened on July 24. The Monopoly Singapore edition was released in 2006, followed by a second update in 2016. Globally, Monopoly has also unveiled a fresh look for its board game as it celebrates its 90th anniversary. The new Singapore edition, like others, features larger tokens, houses and hotels, making them easier for players to handle and move around the board. The packaging has also been redesigned into a more compact square box, saving space compared with the previous rectangular version. In addition to the visual revamp, the company has introduced three new expansion packs, injecting new life into the gameplay. For instance, the Free Parking Jackpot expansion pack transforms the existing 'free parking' space into a jackpot, allowing players to draw bonus cards and acquire free properties. The new Monopoly Singapore edition retails for $49.90 at major retailers and online stores. Expansion packs can be purchased separately for $16.90 each.
Straits Times
27-07-2025
- Straits Times
Forum: Allow SG60 vouchers to be used at local attractions
I would like to suggest that the recently issued SG60 vouchers, which have been generously given to all Singaporeans aged 21 and above, be allowed for use at local places of interest such as Singapore Zoo, Bird Paradise and Gardens by the Bay. These iconic places are wonderful for family outings and for seniors to enjoy with their loved ones. However, the admission costs can be a significant burden for larger families and can easily exceed $150. This makes such trips less accessible for the average family, especially during challenging times with the cost of living rising. Since this round of SG60 vouchers is distributed to citizens, rather than households, many seniors have also received them. Allowing the vouchers to be used at local attractions would encourage more inter-generational bonding and active ageing, and would also support these venues, many of which are local businesses or those reinvesting in education and conservation. The value of these vouchers, whether spent at a retail shop or a local attraction, still flows back into our economy. Broadening their usage to include national attractions aligns well with the original intent of easing the cost of living and supporting local enterprises. Ng Cheng Hoon
Sassy Mama
04-06-2025
- Entertainment
- Sassy Mama
Night Safari Singapore Review: Family Guide, Shows, Tram Rides, Ticket Promos & More
Planning a Night Safari adventure with the kids? From insider tips to taming toddlers after dark, here's our review of Night Safari Singapore, including tram rides, shows, ticket promos and more! The Night Safari offers a real-life adventure for kids whose favourite bedtime book is the classic Dear Zoo. But unlike the world-class Singapore Zoo, this after-dark safari offers the whole family a magical glimpse into the world of nocturnal animals. Spot stealthy predators, glowing eyes in the dark, and animals you'd never catch awake during the day–all from the comfort of the open-air Night Safari tram. From ticket promos and Night Safari shows to behind-the-scenes zookeeper talks, here's our review of Night Safari Singapore, plus how to make the Night Safari with little ones magical–and meltdown-free. If you're making a full day of it, be sure to read our family guides to Singapore Zoo, River Wonders, Bird Paradise and Rainforest Wild ASIA. Jump to: – Night Safari Free Tram Rides – Wildlife Trails at Night Safari – Night Safari Shows – Food at Night Safari – Night Safari Opening Hours – Night Safari Tickets & Promos – Family Tips for Visiting Night Safari Read on for our Night Safari Singapore review & guide to Night Safari with kids: Night Safari Singapore review for families with kids The Night Safari Singapore is a refreshing twist on the usual zoo experience: no blazing sun, no sweaty midday meltdowns, just the cool night air and softly lit trails winding through lush, jungle-like habitats. It's your chance to see nocturnal animals in action, from prowling predators to curious critters you'd never spot during the day. We find getting around the park easy, especially with a toddler in tow, with the complimentary tram ride. It cruises through themed zones inspired by far-flung regions like the Himalayan Foothills and Nepalese River Valley. Want a closer look? Hop off and explore the four walking trails–they're wide, well-marked and surprisingly stroller-friendly. If you ask us, it's a night-time outing that's wild in all the right ways. If you're wondering how long you need to explore the Night Safari, you can expect to spend about two to three hours here, including the tram ride, walking trails and Night Safari shows. Safari Tram Adventure at Night Safari Singapore Our kids cannot get enough of the Safari Adventure Tram ride! This 30-minute guided tour takes you through six themed zones, offering close-up views of animals like Malayan tapirs, hyenas, and Asian elephants in their moonlit habitats. With open sides, comfy seats, and stroller access, it's the perfect way to cover more ground and take a relaxing ride through the park. The Night Safari tram runs from 7pm to 11.20pm, and you can take unlimited rides! Wildlife trails at Night Safari When it comes to exploring the park's grounds, choose from four walking trails: Leopard Trail, Pangolin Trail, East Lodge Trail, and Wallaby Trail. Leopard Trail: Easily the most thrilling of the four trails, the Leopard Trail takes you through dense jungle and rugged terrain–all with stroller-friendly elevated boardwalks and cleverly lit enclosures. You'll stroll by leopards on the prowl and lions lounging under the moonlight. Don't miss the walk-through bat and civet exhibits, where it's all eyes on you! Animal sightings: Clouded leopards, Asian lions, civets, flying foxes, eagle owls Pangolin Trail (formerly Fishing Cat Trail): For something a little more elusive, head down the fully sheltered Pangolin Trail, where typically shy creatures come out to play. Winding paths lead you through tropical foliage to see everything from critically endangered pangolins to fishing cats. Animal sightings: Sunda pangolins, fishing cats, giant flying squirrels, Malayan porcupines, owls East Lodge Trail: This short but memorable trail gives you a front-row view of some of the Night Safari's larger residents. Keep your eyes peeled for Malayan tigers pacing in the dark and Asian elephants enjoying a quiet moment. You'll also spot red river hogs and spotted hyenas along the way – all without straying too far off the main route. Animal sightings: Malayan tigers, Asian elephants, red river hogs, spotted hyenas Tasmanian Devil Trail (formerly Wallaby Trail): Step into the Aussie outback – no passport needed. This easy, breezy loop brings you up close to Tassie devils, wallabies, and sugar gliders as they come to life in the evening. It's a hit with little ones, thanks to the gentle path and laid-back vibes. Animal sightings: Tasmanian devils, wallabies, brush-tailed possums, sugar gliders, North Island brown kiwi Night Safari show timings: Animal presentation We got a 20-minute crash course in nocturnal wildlife at the Creatures of the Night show. Held thrice every evening, this fun show introduces you to creatures like the binturong, fennec fox, and Indian crested porcupine, all while sharing some cool, behind-the-scenes know-how. It's an interactive experience with the keepers showing off these critters' clever tricks–a show perfect for the whole family. Night Safari show time: 7.30pm, 8.30pm & 9.30pm at the Night Safari Amphitheatre Night Safari show booking: Book a seat online here. Bookings open two hours before each presentation, but we recommend booking ahead of time to avoid disappointment. LED light show at Night Safari: Twilight Performance Did you know that there's an LED light show at Night Safari? The Twilight Performance lights up the entire park with fire twirlers, LED wizardry, and enough swagger to wake the jungle. This Night Safari show is a full-blown, crowd-thrilling spectacle that'll have you wide-eyed before you even see your first hyena. It's the perfect warm-up act for a night where the animals aren't the only ones putting on a show. Night Safari show time: 8pm & 9pm at the Entrance Courtyard Night Safari show booking: No bookings are required for this Night Safari show. More info here. More things to do at Night Safari Singapore with kids Indian Rhino feeding at Night Safari: Kiddos can experience feeding the huge Indian Rhinos at the East Lodge Trail. The feeding session and photo bundle costs just $12, and is open for guests who are 1.2m-tall and above. You can add on the feeding session at check out. Safari Adventure Tour: Ditch the sweaty crowds and nab yourself the night safari's VIP experience: the Safari Adventure Tour, where you'll get your very own private buggy. Your personal guide tailors your experience to whatever makes your little ones' eyes llight up. Yes, it'll set you back a fair amount (from $560 for up to seven people) but you'll get exclusive stops where you can feed Indian rhinos and Asian elephants. Check it out here. Keeper talks: At the Night Safari's series of keeper talks, you'll get the lowdown on the park's most fascinating residents. Think Tasmanian devils, pangolins, and white tigers, with fun, quick-fire facts about their habits and care. They're easy to slot into your route, and great for curious kids who want a closer look without committing to a full show. View the full line-up here. Food at Night Safari There are six dining outlets at Night Safari Singapore, so by all means, have dinner here before starting your adventure. You'll find food stalls at the Ulu Ulu Sfari Restaurant at the entrance of Night Safari. It's got all your kid-friendly offerings including local and Asian food, Indian cuisine, grilled satay, desserts and drinks and more. There's also a Ben & Jerry's at the Entrance Plaza for a sweet treat. Ulu Ulu Safari Restaurant is open daily from 5.30pm – 11pm. Night Safari Singapore opening hours & admission times Night Safari Singapore is open daily from 7.15pm to 12am. Last admission is at 11.15pm. You can choose any of the following time slots: 7.15pm, 7.45pm, 8.15pm, 8.45pm, 9.15pm and 9.45pm. Night Safari closes pretty late at 12am, so take your time to explore the park. We recommend booking ahead since entry times fill up fast, especially the 7:15pm slot. Singapore Night Safari opening hours: 7.15pm – 12am, Daily Night Safari Singapore tickets & promos Standard admission tickets clock in at $58 for adults and $41 for kids aged 3 to 12, while kids under 3 enter free. Get Night Safari tickets here. Night Safari ticket promo: Singapore residents with a valid WildPass get up to 26% off Singapore Night Safari tickets. Parent tips for visiting the Night Safari with kids With little ones in tow, this nocturnal wildlife park is magical, but it certainly pays to plan ahead. Here are a few tips to keep things smooth, fun, and meltdown-free. Arrive early and fuel up: Get there before the gates open at 7.15pm. Our suggestion? Either have an early dinner or eat at the Night Safari so you're ready to go. There are lots of family-friendly options, but snaking queues build up fast. Hop on the tram before tackling walking trails: The complimentary tram is the best way to kick off your Night Safari adventure, especially with younger kids. The 30-minute ride is smooth, scenic, and takes you past big-ticket animals like elephants, lions, and Malayan tapirs. It also gives everyone a chance to settle in and soak up the atmosphere before exploring on foot. Bonus: little ones often find the gentle motion and forest sounds soothing. Prep like a pro: Pack the essentials for the kids: comfy shoes, snacks for a quick energy boost, water to stay hydrated, and insect repellent (those mozzies are sneaky). A portable fan can be a lifesaver in the queues, especially in the heat. Dress in lightweight clothes for the humidity, and don't forget to keep that mosquito spray handy if you're exploring the trails. Embrace the darkness–safely: It's all about the night-time vibes, so expect dim paths and just the glow of moonlight. Keep a close eye on kids, hold their hands while walking through the trails, or hand out glow stick bracelets for fun and easy spotting. No flashlights needed (or allowed), you just need an adventurous spirit! Night Safari, 80 Mandai Lake Rd, Singapore 729826, More adventures for animal lovers:
New Paper
30-04-2025
- New Paper
Bird Paradise celebrates historic first hatching of endangered kagu chick
In a rare and remarkable breakthrough for avian conservation in Singapore, Bird Paradise has successfully hatched its first-ever kagu chick, marking a historic milestone in the care and breeding of one of the world's most elusive birds. In a media release on April 30, Mandai Wildlife Group, which oversees the operations of Bird Paradise, said the chick hatched on March 1 after 25 days of artificial incubation. It is currently being hand-raised at the park's Breeding and Research Centre. The kagu is a flightless bird native to the dense forests of New Caledonia, a French territory located in the south-western Pacific Ocean, east of Australia and west of Vanuatu. It is generally regarded as elusive, preferring to remain hidden in dense, humid forests. "Welcoming our first kagu chick has been incredibly special for the team," said Ms Anais Tritto, assistant vice-president of animal care at Mandai Wildlife Group. "After several unsuccessful incubation attempts by the parent birds, we stepped in to artificially incubate the egg, carefully controlling the temperature and humidity to replicate natural nesting conditions as closely as possible to support healthy development," she said. The chick's weight being recorded on Day 12. PHOTO: MANDAI WILDLIFE GROUP Ms Tritto added that for a species as rare and challenging to breed in managed care, every successful hatching represents both a scientific achievement and a source of hope. The adult kagu is easily recognisable by its bluish-grey feathers, bright orange beak and legs, and a striking crest that it displays during courtship and territorial rituals. The chick's parents arrived at Bird Paradise from Yokohama Zoo in November 2023. PHOTO: MANDAI WILDLIFE GROUP With an estimated wild population of just 500 to 1,000 individuals, the kagu is classified as endangered by the International Union for Conservation of Nature. Breeding the species in captivity is notoriously difficult, said Mandai Wildlife Group. Kagus have a low reproductive rate, typically laying only one egg a year. They are monogamous and require strong pair bonds, reinforced by elaborate courtship displays such as crest-raising, wing-spreading, and vocal duets. Compounding the challenge, their shy nature and sensitivity to environmental factors make successful incubation and chick-rearing particularly delicate under human care. In 2024, the chick's genetically matched parents - a pair from Yokohama Zoo that arrived at Bird Paradise in 2023 - laid two eggs in separate nesting attempts, both of which failed to hatch. These setbacks were likely due to parental inexperience or unsuitable environmental conditions. Learning from these experiences, keepers transferred a third egg to a hatcher to maximise its chances of survival, Mandai Wildlife Group explained. Since hatching at just 36g, the chick has grown steadily and now weighs 630g - well on its way to the adult weight of around 1kg. PHOTO: MANDAI WILDLIFE GROUP Since hatching at just 36g, the chick has grown steadily and now weighs 630g - well on its way to the adult weight of around 1kg. Keepers have had to adapt their care methods to accommodate the chick's unique needs, including finding appropriate dietary substitutes, modifying nesting equipment and creating a comfortable environment. A cardboard box was placed in its brooder to mimic a safe hiding space and a plush toy was introduced to offer comfort in place of its parents. Keepers have had to adapt their care methods to accommodate the chick's unique needs, including modifying nesting equipment and creating a comfortable environment. PHOTO: MANDAI WILDLIFE GROUP The chick is now transitioning to an adult diet of prawns, mice and live insects. Its daily routine includes morning sun sessions for natural vitamin D and regular weigh-ins to monitor its growth. Later in 2025, once it gains independence, it will move to an aviary at the Winged Sanctuary exhibit. Because male and female kagus are visually identical, DNA testing will be conducted to determine the chick's sex once it matures. As part of the European Association of Zoos and Aquaria's Ex-situ Programme, the kagu breeding initiative at Bird Paradise contributes to the global effort to preserve the species through managed care and genetic diversity.
Straits Times
30-04-2025
- General
- Straits Times
Bird Paradise celebrates historic first hatching of endangered kagu chick
SINGAPORE - In a rare and remarkable breakthrough for avian conservation in Singapore, Bird Paradise has successfully hatched its first-ever kagu chick, marking a historic milestone in the care and breeding of one of the world's mos t elusive birds. In a media release on April 30, Mandai Wildlife Group, which oversees the operations of Bird Paradise, said the chick hatched on March 1 after 25 days of artific ial incubation. It is currently being hand-raised at the park's Br eeding and Rese arch Centre. The kagu is a flightless bird native to the dense forests of New Caledonia, a French territory located in the south-western Pacific Ocean, east of Australia and west of Vanuatu. It is generally regarded as elusive, preferring to remain hidden in dense, humid forests. 'Welcoming our first kagu chick has been incredibly special for the team,' said Ms Anais Tritto, assistant vice-president of animal care at Mandai Wildlife Group. 'After several unsuccessful incubation attempts by the parent birds, we stepped in to artificially incubate the egg, carefully controlling the temperature and humidity to replicate natural nesting conditions as closely as possible to support healthy development,' she said. The chick's weight being recorded on Day 12. PHOTO: MANDAI WILDLIFE GROUP Ms Tritto added that for a species as rare and challenging to breed in managed care, every successful hatching represents both a scientific achievement and a source of hope. The adult kagu is easily recognisable by its bluish-grey feather s, bright orange beak and legs, and a striking crest that it displays during courtship and territorial rituals. The chick's parents arrived at Bird Paradise from Yokohama Zoo in November 2023. PHOTO: MANDAI WILDLIFE GROUP With an estimated wild population of just 500 to 1,000 individuals, the kagu is classified as endangered by the International Union for Conservation of Nature. Breeding the species in captivity is notoriously difficult, said M andai Wildlife Group. Kagus h ave a low reproductive rate, typically laying only one egg a year. They are monogamous and require strong pair bonds, reinforced by elaborate courtship displays such as crest-raising, wing-spreading, and vocal duets. Compounding the challenge, their shy nature and sensitivity to environmental factors make successful incubation and chick-rearing particularly delicate under human care. In 2024, the chick's genetically matched parents – a pair from Y okohama Zoo that arrived at Bird Paradise in 2023 – laid two eggs in separate nesting attempts, both of which failed to hatch. These setbacks were likely due to parental inexperience or unsuitable environmental conditions. Learning from these experiences, keepers transferred a third egg to a hatcher to maximise its chances of survival, Mandai Wildlife Group explained. Since hatching at just 36g, the chick has grown steadily and now weighs 630g – well on its way to the adult weight of around 1kg. PHOTO: MANDAI WILDLIFE GROUP Since hatching at just 36g , the chick has grown steadily and now weighs 630g – well on its way to the adult weight of around 1kg. Keepers have had to adapt their care methods to accommodate the chick's unique needs, including finding appropriate dietary substitutes, modifying nesting equipment and creating a comfortable environment. A cardboard box was placed in its brooder to mimic a safe hiding space and a plush toy was introduced to offer comfort in place of its parents. Keepers have had to adapt their care methods to accommodate the chick's unique needs, including modifying nesting equipment and creating a comfortable environment. PHOTO: MANDAI WILDLIFE GROUP The chick is now transitioning to an adult diet of prawns, mice and live insects. Its daily routine includes morning sun sessions for natural vitamin D and regular weigh-ins to monitor its growth. Later in 2025, once it gains independence, it will move to an aviary at the Winged Sanctuary exhibit. Because male and female kagus are visually identical, DNA testing will be conducted to determine the chick's sex once it matures. As part of th e Europe an Association of Zoos and Aquaria's Ex-situ Programme, the kagu breeding initiative at Bird Paradise contributes to the global effort to preserve the species through managed care and genetic diversity. Join ST's WhatsApp Channel and get the latest news and must-reads.
