One of the smallest birds found in Sungei Buloh Wetland Reserve is also one of its brightest - the Crimson Sunbird.
The male adult weighs about 7.0 g (about the weight of a 50-cent coin), and from beak to tail measures between 115 to 117 mm (about the length of an iPhone). The plumage of the male consists of a striking crimson breast, maroon back and olive-coloured body. The female, in contrast, is not only smaller in size, but is also more dully-coloured in olive and yellow.
The Crimson Sunbird, like other sunbirds, feeds mainly on nectar. It uses its long, slender decurved bill and tongue to probe suitable flowers for nectar. Sunbird nests are usually globular or oval in shape, made up of grass, fibres and cobwebs, and usually suspended from the ends of twigs. Clutches of two eggs are typical.
In a poll held in 2002, the crimson sunbird was unofficially voted as Singapore's national bird.
Photos by Mendis Tan and Toh Yuet Hsin.

Main Feature

The river that courses through Bishan is filled with exciting flora and fauna.

The Recycle Hill is made up of concrete slabs from the original canal, topped with a sculpture titled 'An Enclosure for a Swing'.

Families were out at the park flying kites in the evening breeze.

The bridge is a popular spot for people to gather - to gaze at the wildlife below along the banks of the river or just to watch the world go by.

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A River Runs Through It

At the redeveloped Bishan-Ang Mo Kio Park, a naturalised river has taken the place of a concrete canal, and plants integrated into its banks to encourage the development of natural biodiversity. The park is now a place for families to gather and have fun, or just to watch the sunset.

WIN! We have dining and dessert vouchers from Cornerstone and Food for Thought and two terrariums from the Plant Story to give away.

Find out how to win these great prizes!

Lifestyle

A View Like None Other

The North Eastern Riverine Loop is probably the most scenic of the four park connector loops developed so far. Following the course of three rivers and connecting four towns, the NERL promises an enjoyable experience for cyclists, joggers and walkers.

Conservation

A Muddy Wilderness

Before Bryan Wijaya had his first volunteering experience with the Comprehensive Marine Biodiversity Survey (CMBS), he preferred sleeping to wading in mud. Despite falling into the mud twice and having to dig out worms, he now finds his time spent with the CMBS team a life-changing experience.

Gardening

Give Your Garden Pruning Residues a Second Life!

Instead of throwing out the leftover residues from pruning your garden, recycle them to enhance your table display. Just follow the simple steps demonstrated here.

Highlights

We want your views on the proposed Round Island Route and Destination Parks! - Have a say in how our City in a Garden will look. Tell us what you wish to see in our parks. Visit us at our roadshows or submit your ideas online.

Art in the park! - Nestled amid the lush greenery of Istana Park is an art school cum gallery. It is a place where both adults and children can indulge in their passion for art.

Singapore Garden Festival is back again! - Mark your calendar for the biennial horticulture event of the year. Running from 7 to 15 July 2012 at Suntec Singapore, look out for some new features, such as a Balcony Garden competition and a non-competitive Floral Table Series, which is in partnership with leading Singapore hotels.

Faber Bistro is opened for a splendid hill-top dining experience! - Located just across the Jewel Box at the top of Mt Faber, Faber Bistro offers al fresco dining among lush greenery with a splendid view of the city and harbourfront.

Explore art at Fort Canning Park! - At the foot of Fort Canning Hill, where a public pool once stood, a group of art lovers has turned the old buildings into a place for art appreciation.

Editorial Team