Sungei Buloh was discovered by a group of avid birdwatchers in 1986, who proposed to the government for its conservation. In 1989, Sungei Buloh wetland reserve was designated as a nature park. The 87 hectares wetland site underwent development and was officially opened on 6 Dec 1993. In 2003, this wetland reserve became Singapore’s first ASEAN Heritage Park.

Sungei Buloh is home to the mangrove forest & is a sanctuary for birds -  which has been an integral part of the national heritage of Singapore. Out of 87 hectares of land, 29 hectares are occupied by mangrove forests, which is an ideal place for bird watching.

For centuries, man has been using materials gathered from mangroves to create tools and equipments in their daily lives. Mangrove wood is also a valuable source of timber for boat-building and firewood. The roots of mangrove trees also prevented coastal erosion and acts as a nursery for young fries of fishes, prawns and other marine creatures.

Entrance & lobby of Sungei Buloh Wetland Reserve

Start of walking trail

Educational signs like this one is a common sight in Sungei Buloh. Noni fruit (as pictured) is a medicinal herb which is said to cure kidney problems. Kangkong (a type of vegetable eaten by Asians)  is also found growing wild on the ground here. Look carefully in the mangrove forest and you could often spot a mudskipper.

Crocodiles are rarely sighted but recently one particular crocodile is often seen in the water surface along Sungei Buloh Besar (the main river of the Wetland Reserve). Crocodile warning signs are posted at many parts of the Wetland Reserve where they are most often spotted. For your own safety, heed the warning signs.

One of the most commonly seen reptiles in the Wetland Reserve is the Malayan Water Monitor Lizard. This reptile is often mistaken for a crocodile.   You are reminded not to take anything that belongs to the nature park. Be friendly to the reserve. There are also little animals sharing the same path (just like this little one resting on the wooden path). Be careful of your footsteps.     Bird watching shelters are located in different parts of Sungei Buloh for your viewing pleasure. Bring along a binoculars to bird-watch. You are reminded to be as quiet as possible. Binoculars is available for rental from the information counter.