Our Conservation, for Nature

NParks’ continued efforts to safeguard native biodiversity are bearing fruit under a vital canopy of support networks, rooted in the care and commitment of the community that has stepped up to steward our natural environment.

Diving Deeper into Biodiversity Research

NParks launched the second phase of the Comprehensive Marine Biodiversity Survey (CMBS II), in collaboration with the National University of Singapore's Lee Kong Chian Natural History Museum and Tropical Marine Science Institute. Building on insights from the first phase, CMBS II will explore new biomes and sites to provide a complete picture of our marine biodiversity, which will inform future conservation plans. It will also build local capacity in marine research by employing and testing novel tools that can be used for research projects beyond CMBS II, such as Autonomous Reef Monitoring Structures, seabed corers and mobile labs.

2024 also saw the release of publications crucial to conservation planning and management. One of these was the third edition of the Singapore Red Data book, which is the most comprehensive edition yet, recording the conservation status of more than 9,400 species — over thrice as many as the previous edition. Additionally, the revised Biodiversity Impact Assessment guidelines now include new marine habitat types and updates on how baseline studies on terrestrial and marine sites should be conducted.

Such resources help developers and industry practitioners understand how the impact of development works on local flora and fauna is evaluated in an Environmental Impact Assessment. Altogether, these advancements in research allow us to better conserve our natural heritage and strengthen Singapore's ecological resilience.

A stony coral being cultivated in a coral culture facility

A stony coral (Micromussa amakusensis, pictured) being cultivated in a coral culture facility. Micromussa corals and Plate Acropora corals (Acropora millepora) are two of the target species that will be cultivated under NParks' Species Recovery Programme for corals.

New Successes for Conservation

In the country's most ambitious coral restoration effort yet, NParks launched the 100k Corals Initiative, which aims to plant 100,000 corals in Singapore's waters over the next decade and beyond. With support from researchers and experts at the St John's Island National Marine Laboratory, corals will be cultivated at a new facility at the Marine Park Outreach and Education Centre on St John's Island, using smart technology to optimise large-scale coral cultivation. They will then be transplanted into our marine environment to help restore degraded reefs or establish new coral communities. The programme crucially expands NParks' existing coral restoration efforts, where targeted propagation of some species of hard corals (including Pavona cactus and Porites cylindrica) is ongoing. Given Singapore's limited coral cover, these initiatives aim to improve the resilience of our local coral communities and reefs.

NParks also successfully carried out the first ex-situ conservation work for all three of Singapore's endemic freshwater crab species: Johnson's Freshwater Crab (Irmengardia johnsoni), Singapore Freshwater Crab (Johora singaporensis) and Swamp Forest Crab (Parathelphusa reticulata). About 1,900 crabs across the three species have been bred and produced in captivity, with some being released into the wild to increase their natural population — a landmark achievement for NParks' Species Recovery Programme. The programme, introduced in 2015 as part of NParks' Nature Conservation Masterplan, focuses on conserving endemic, rare or threatened native species in Singapore through reintroduction, habitat enhancement and protection efforts.

Native flora populations also received a boost, with NParks propagating, reintroducing and distributing thousands of specimens of critically endangered native species across habitats. One such species is the Two-fold Velvet Bean (Mucuna biplicata), a critically endangered flora from Singapore's lowland dipterocarp forests that was recently discovered in 2022, in just one location in western Singapore.

A Singapore Freshwater Crab (Johora singaporensis).

As part of species recovery efforts, the Two-fold Velvet Bean (Mucuna biplicata), is currently being protected in-situ, with ongoing efforts to propagate it from seeds and stem cuttings.

Growing Blue Sanctuaries

Nature-lovers now have even more to explore with the reopening of Sisters' Islands Marine Park, revamped with fresh features that support conservation, research, outreach and education. New additions include Singapore's first floating boardwalk that doubles as a coral habitat and research site; a coastal forest trail leading to a scenic hilltop deck; and an enhanced lagoon that serves as an outdoor classroom while supporting mangrove restoration and monitoring programmes. These upgrades allow the public to get up close and personal with the rich marine life of our City in Nature.

Meanwhile, plans are in motion to designate a second marine park at Lazarus South-Kusu Reef. In 2022, NParks' Ecological Profiling Exercise on Singapore's coastal and marine environment found habitats at Lazarus Island and Kusu Island to be ecologically significant, in line with the Singapore Blue Plan 2018 drawn up by the nature community. The new park will enhance ecological connectivity alongside the conservation and management of both terrestrial and marine sites, while offering more opportunities for nature-based recreation, outreach and education.

Sisters' Islands Marine Park floating boardwalk

Sisters' Islands Marine Park is home to Singapore's first floating boardwalk that spans 220 m. Integrated habitat panels along the lower sides support coral growth and attract diverse marine species, functioning as both a living reef and a coral nursery.

Check out all you can do at Sisters' Islands Marine Park!

Charting Ubin’s Next Chapter

The next phase of The Ubin Project was launched in conjunction with its 10ᵗʰ anniversary, bringing a set of proposals co-developed by the Friends of Ubin Network, the Ministry of National Development and NParks. This next phase will build on past efforts to conserve Pulau Ubin’s rich biodiversity, heritage and culture while facilitating environmental education and nature-based recreation. Upcoming plans range from implementing more species recovery efforts and initiatives to support villagers, to rolling out a dedicated Kampung House Restoration Programme and the Ubin School Initiative.

Participants of Avian and Wildlife Photography Outing

Participants of an Avian and Wildlife Photography Outing point their cameras towards Pekan Quarry. The quarry is a haven for birds thanks to the flourishing floating wetlands — nature-based solutions that help with wastewater treatment and enhance the habitat for biodiversity. Beyond the quarry, Pulau Ubin is a sanctuary for birdlife, including the White-rumped Shama (Copsychus malabaricus) and Straw-headed Bulbul (Pycnonotus zeylanicus), two native songbirds heavily impacted by illegal wildlife trade.

Building Green Bridges

More projects are in the pipeline to extend green networks across the country — facilitating nature-based recreation and serving as important bridges for wildlife movement. The upcoming Bukit Batok Nature Corridor will connect Bukit Timah Nature Reserve and the future Tengah Forest Corridor. Parks, nature trails, boardwalks, play areas and an enhanced stream are among the many features that the community will be able to enjoy here.

In northern Singapore, Mandai Mangrove and Mudflat will be conserved as a nature park that will enhance coastal protection and boost wetland and migratory shorebird conservation, leveraging its ecological links to the nearby Sungei Buloh Wetland Reserve. Mangroves, with their dense root systems, are in themselves nature-based solutions, defending our coasts against erosion by waves and wind. Other forms of nature-based solutions, such as slope-regrading and the use of geobags for coastal restoration and reinforcement, will also be employed in the design of the coastal trails. The trails, bird hides and visitor nodes will offer the public opportunities to learn more about the fauna and flora there.

Mandai Mangrove and Mudflat Nature Park will provide complementary habitats for migratory birds such as the Pacific Golden Plover (Pluvialis fulva), which stop over in Sungei Buloh Wetland Reserve every year to feed and roost.

Students presenting to President Tharman Shanmugaratnam

Students from Northoaks Primary School Environmental Science Club present their Bird Identification Project to President Tharman Shanmugaratnam, which they had done under Nature Society Singapore's Every Student a Naturalist programme.

Bringing Biodiversity Closer to Singaporeans

Held at One Punggol in May 2024, the annual Festival of Biodiversity returned with its 13ᵗʰ edition to celebrate the community's efforts to conserve our natural heritage. Its exciting array of activities gave residents a fun and vibrant introduction to our abundant biodiversity, fostering greater interest in local conservation among Singaporeans.

Our youth, too, are being engaged in conservation efforts. The Community in Nature Schools Award recognises the efforts of schools, educators and students in promoting local conservation. In 2024, its third edition saw 70 nominations ranging from preschools to junior colleges — the highest number of nominations since the biennial award started in 2020. This reflects Singapore's strong commitment to nurturing the next generation of stewards for our City in Nature.

Festival of Biodiversity 2024 at One Punggol showcasing community conservation efforts

Students from Northoaks Primary School presenting Bird Identification Project

Community in Nature Schools Award 2024 recipients and participants

Bird Society conservation activities and community engagement

Bird identification and nature education programs

Community bird watching and conservation initiatives

Singapore bird species documentation and research

Nature reserves and housing estate bird diversity

Bird Society educational outreach and public engagement

Mr Movin Nyanasengeran, the president of the Bird Society, is on a mission to get people interested in the birds of Singapore. From nature reserves to housing estates, he is certain there is a bird for everyone.

Staying Vigilant against Animal Diseases

While Singapore remains free of high pathogenicity avian influenza (HPAI), also known as bird flu, the disease's endemic status in the region requires constant vigilance. In 2024, the Animal and Veterinary Service (AVS), a cluster of NParks and the Singapore Food Agency jointly conducted Exercise Gallus X, simulating a bird flu outbreak at a local farm to test our operational readiness. The exercise involved setting up a temporary structure for personnel and equipment to support ground operations efficiently; carrying out operations to effectively manage a HPAI incursion; and ensuring efficient delivery of supplies and support services.

In the area of biosurveillance, AVS continues to gather and conduct research on disease threats, which helps inform risk-based policies to detect and manage diseases early. Agencies will continue to monitor HPAI developments beyond our shores, including engaging with overseas authorities, to safeguard public and animal health in Singapore.

Officers donning personal protective equipment during Exercise Gallus X, as part of AVS and SFA's efforts to regularly test operational readiness for a bird flu outbreak.

Raising the Bar for the Pet Sector

AVS continues its work to raise animal health and welfare standards within the pet sector. The Cat Management Framework was rolled out in September 2024 to improve the traceability and welfare of cats in Singapore. As of 31 March 2025, around 30,000 pet cats have been licensed, 95% of which have been sterilised. Meanwhile, over 30,000 people have completed the online pet ownership course covering basic pet care, which is mandatory for first-time cat licence applicants.

Community support has been key, with many volunteers stepping forward to help. AVS also provided free microchipping for some 5,000 pet cats at pet-related and animal welfare events in the past financial year. In response to high demand for these free microchipping services, AVS is organising over 30 microchipping and licensing drives in 2025.

AVS also launched the Pet Cat Sterilisation Support programme, which provides free sterilisation and microchipping for lower-income households. As of 31 March 2025, over 350 pet cats have benefitted from the programme.

Pet care initiatives extend from felines to canines, with a new Dog Training Standards Workgroup building upon existing efforts to raise the standards of the dog training industry. Co-chaired by AVS and the Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals, the group's work includes developing proposals to promote the Least Intrusive, Minimally Aversive approach of dog training, which emphasises humane dog training methods.

The Dog Training Standards Workgroup consists of dog trainers, veterinarians, animal welfare groups, and representatives from working dog units. It will review positions and develop regulatory frameworks on the use of training devices, including shock and prong collars.

AVS implemented the Trap-Neuter-Rehome/Release-Manage (TNRM) programme for community cats on 1 September 2024. TNRM builds upon and replaces the Stray Cat Sterilisation Programme, which started in 2011 and has seen an average of 4,000 cats sterilised and microchipped annually since 2020.

Looking towards the veterinary industry, AVS launched new telehealth guidelines covering telemedicine, teleadvice and teletriage, including recommendations on the use of telemedicine in different scenarios. These support NParks' efforts to raise the professional standards of the veterinary sector, as its size, scope and complexity continues to grow in tandem with Singapore's pet population.

AVS is also developing guidelines to establish common animal welfare standards for Singapore's animal shelters. The process of developing the guidelines involved multiple discussions with stakeholders, including animal welfare group (AWG) rehoming partners, animal shelters, veterinarians and animal trainers, before opening the proposed guidelines to public feedback. The proposed guidelines are being refined with the feedback gathered, and will be shared when ready.

Cat Management Framework implementation and pet cat licensing process

Free microchipping and licensing drives for pet cats

Dog Training Standards Workgroup and humane training methods

Veterinary telehealth guidelines and professional standards

Animal welfare standards for shelters and rehoming partners

TNRM programme for community cats and sterilization efforts

Pet sector regulation and industry development

Veterinary industry growth and professional development

Animal shelter guidelines and stakeholder engagement

Pet sector innovation and future developments

A veterinary clinician, pet nutritionist, and the President of the Singapore Veterinary Association, Dr Teo Boon Han's love for animals has led him to the vet sector. He spends his days treating animals and consulting for organisations. He also has teaching and research roles, and contributes actively in shaping industry policies and standards.

Safeguarding Healthy Community Animals

Launched in 2018, the Trap-Neuter-Rehome/Release-Manage (TNRM) programme continues to manage the free-roaming dog population through humane trapping, sterilising and rehoming. Around 80% of Singapore's free-roaming dogs have been sterilised to date, surpassing the target of 70%. As of 31 March 2025, over 4,300 free-roaming dogs have been trapped, 65% of which have been rehomed, fostered or sheltered. Sterilised dogs unsuitable for rehoming are released at suitable locations to live out their lives naturally.

In 2024, AVS extended the TNRM programme to community cats, in partnership with numerous AWGs. Under the programme, AVS co-developed community cat caregiving guidelines with stakeholders and expanded funding support for sterilisation and microchipping, to include the trapping and boarding of community cats. These efforts serve to improve the management and welfare of animals within our communities.

Minister of State for National Development Alvin Tan attends Pets' Day Out, a signature event by AVS.

Biosurveillance Action by Youths

Young stewards for nature supported NParks' biosurveillance efforts through the prototyping of a one-stop mobile application to help pet owners monitor their pets' health. The project aimed to improve communication between pet owners and vets for efficient treatment and raise public awareness on the transmission of zoonotic diseases. This represents another step forward in the broader effort to keep Singapore safe against zoonotic diseases.

Living with Wildlife

NParks adopts a science- and community-based approach to managing wildlife. To manage encounters with Long-tailed Macaques (Macaca fascicularis), NParks employs various measures such as studying the population ecology of macaques; minimising human sources of food by ensuring proper waste disposal and enforcing against feeding; and making habitat modifications like removing fruit trees, guiding macaques away from human areas, and removing aggressive and intrusive macaques.

To complement these measures, NParks adopts a multi-pronged approach in engaging stakeholders and community leaders. This includes outreach on handling macaque encounters as well as engagement activities, such as residents' sharing sessions through Nature Kakis chapters and community events.

In the heartlands, NParks launched two new initiatives to better manage crow and pigeon populations in 2024. For one, NParks has taken over crow nest removal operations from Town Council-managed trees, so as to expedite the process and control crow numbers.

Teaming up with the National Environment Agency, Singapore Food Agency (SFA) and town councils, NParks also piloted a pigeon management action plan in Ang Mo Kio, Bishan-Toa Payoh and Tanjong Pagar. Over nine months, coordinated efforts were made to step up pigeon removal and encourage proper food waste management. With its success in reducing pigeon-related feedback and pigeon populations at hotspots, this plan will be extended to other estates in 2025.