Nature lovers, especially bird enthusiasts, great news! Another close to nature park has just opened after Coney Island. Introducing The Kranji Marshes Park.
The park was officially open to the public on 1 Feb 2016 by Desmond Lee, Senior Minister of State, Ministry of Home Affairs & Ministry of National Development.
Interesting background info
Kranji River or Sungei Kranji is one of the longest rivers in Singapore and used to be lined with dense mangrove forests. When the Kranji Reservoir was dammed for the construction of the Kranji Reservoir in the 1970s, the mangroves were inundated a freshwater marsh was formed.
In November 2008, the Nature Society (Singapore) adopted this wetland park under the PUB’s Active, Beautiful and Clean (ABC) Programme which aims to recognise, inspire and encourage community stewardship of Singapore’s water resources.
Wildlife in Kranji Marshes
With an area of 56.8-hectare, including the woodlands bordering the marshland, it is the largest freshwater marsh in Singapore. The marshlands are home to some 170 species of birds, 54 species of butterflies and 33 species of dragonflies.
Some of the birds found in the Kranji Marshes are: Lesser Whistling Duck, Grey-headed Fish Eagle, Yellow Bittern, Purple Heron, Little Tern, Red-wattled Lapwing, Common Moorhen, Purple Swamphen etc.
Some shots we took of some of the birds on our visit
Visiting the Kranji Marshes
Vehicular traffic can only reach Kranji Gate at Neo Tiew Lane 2. Do visit the restrooms at the visitor centre before embarking on the 1-kilometre walk to the Marsh Station and Observation Raptor Tower.
There are two shelters along the Kranji Nature Walk route, namely Woodpecker Shelter and Weaver Shelter where you can rest if you are tired. At the same time, you can read more about the birds and observe them behind the hides.
While walking, look out for birds and reptiles, such as woodpeckers and monitor lizards. Often, a Changeable Hawk Eagle or White-bellied Sea Eagle can be seen perching on one of the tall trees.
Marsh Station
At the Marsh Station, visit one of the bird hides for a chance to observe shy marsh birds such as the Purple Swamphen and Common Moorhen.
Enjoy a panoramic view of Kranji Marshes and Kranji Reservoir from the top of the 10.65 metres tall Raptor Tower.
Due to its close proximity to Tengah Air Base, you will also get the chance to see many RSAF fighter jets thundering past.
Guided Walks NParks
Free guided walks are conducted once a month, on Saturday evenings. Explore and learn more about the nature area from the experienced and knowledgeable guides who will take you around the core conservation area, which is not usually open to the public, as that area is ecologically sensitive.
With a range of natural habitats such as freshwater marsh, woodland and grass habitats, Kranji Marshes is a great place for visitors to observe and enjoy nature.
For more information on the guided walk by NParks, visit nparks.gov.sg.
Guided Walks NSS Nature Society (Singapore)
This walk is offered by Nature Society (Singapore) (NSS) in collaboration with NParks and participants will explore the new boardwalk which provides excellent views across Kranji Marshes.
Guided walks by NSS (collaboration with NParks) are usually held in the mornings from 7.30am to 10.30am. For more information, visit nss.org.sg
Park Information
A car park with 20 parking lots is available at Kranji Gate. There’s no lighting in the marsh, so be sure to visit during the day.
Opening hours: 7am to 7pm daily
Tips for visitors:
- Bring water
- Carry an umbrella or raincoat.
- Apply insect repellent.
- Binoculars will be useful; for bird watching.
- Go to the toilet at the entrance before walking to the marsh station.
- If you drive, do note that the carpark is muddy when wet.
How to go to Kranji Marshes Park
Location: 11 Neo Tiew Lane 2, Singapore 718814
Take the Kranji Express bus from Kranji MRT Station which operates daily from 8.30 am to 5.45 pm. (Details) Alight at D’Kranji Farm Resort and take a short walk to Kranji Gate. From Kranji Gate, it is an approximately 1 km walk along Neo Tiew Lane 2 to the observation tower.
Nearby places to check out:
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