WILDLIFE RESERVES SINGAPORE YEARBOOK 2013-14 1 ABOUT WILDLIFE RESERVES SINGAPORE • YEARBOOK 2013-14 WILDLIFE RESERVES SINGAPORE

Wildlife Reserves Singapore (WRS) is the holding companyof the award- winning attractions Jurong Bird Park, Night Safari, Singapore Zoo and the newly-opened River Safari. WRS is dedicated to the management of world-class leisure attractions that foster conservation and research, whileeducating visitors about animals and their habitats. CONTENTS A self-funded organisation, WRS also collaborates withvarious partners, organisations and institutions aimed at protecting local and global biodiversity. Each year, Jurong Bird Park welcomes over 900,000 visitors, Night Safari 1.1million, Singapore Zoo 1.7 million and River Safari 1 million. • Adopters & Donors 12 • Year In Review 15 • River Safari in Full Flow 16 • Zoo’s 40th Birthday Party 19 • Inuka’s New Playground 20 • Our Living Collection 22 • Our Animal Care Knowhow 29 • Conservation & Research 32

Jurong Bird Park Night Safari Where Colour lives The World’s First • Touching Hearts, Inspiring Action 44 • Delivering Great Wildlife Experiences 48

• Financial & Attendance Highlights 52

Singapore Zoo River Safari World’s Best Rainforest Zoo Asia’s First & Only River-Themed Wildlife Park

2 3 CHAIRMAN’S MESSAGE

2013-14 was another year overfl owing with abundance, in a giant river otter, the fi rst seen here in Asia. We had a total In the arena of international thought leadership, we broke These efforts have earned even more appreciation from the manner of speaking. Our “integrated reserves” concept at of 698 successful births, of which 128 are as threatened, new ground in gathering experts, interest groups and public and industry players this year. Singapore Zoo was Wildlife Reserves Singapore became even fuller, and more including the orang utan, manatee, hyacinth macaw and stakeholders in roundtables and conferences to assemble a the 2013 Medallion Recipient for Organisations, a pinnacle complete, this year, with the eagerly-awaited offi cial opening Malayan tapir. stronger voice to advocate for wildlife and nature. A particular honour presented by agencies of the national GEMS of River Safari. We were very happy to have Prime Minister highlight was the Combined Veterinary Conference in (Go the Extra Mile for Service) Up movement to inspire a Lee Hsien Loong offi ciate at the opening on 28 February Right here at home, we also contributed to enhancing the October 2013 – which we co-organised with the Singapore transformation in good service in Singapore. At the Singapore 2014, to mark a new era of extending our showcasing of the wildlife on this island in the wild, despite its small size and Veterinary Association – also brought together the Asian Experience Awards 2013, presented by the Singapore wild to embrace the freshwater habitats of our world. increasing population density. In March, Jurong Bird Park Society Zoo and Wildlife Medicine, Unusual Pets and Avian Tourism Board, WRS went one better than the year before by became the fi rst institution globally to incubate artifi cially Veterinarians, and the Association of Avian Veterinarians earning three major accolades: Night Safari earned its 11th Once again – just as we did with the paradigm shift to and hatch three Oriental pied hornbill eggs that had been Australasian Committee. Through the year, the global honour for providing the ‘Best Visitor Attraction Experience’; nocturnal visitorship when we opened the Night Safari more rescued from Pulau Ubin. Later in July, three other older birds spotlight was enhanced on species of particular interest, Singapore Zoo’s Wild Discoverer Tour was a joint winner for than 20 years ago – we have managed to be a game-changer were released on Pulau Ubin, to add to the population there including the Sumatran rhino, the ploughshare tortoise, Best Travel Experience; and WRS won the Most Innovative among wildlife parks, to break new ground and open up even and enhance the hornbill biodiversity in the wild. It was a the river terrapins, the pangolin and our very own endemic Marketing Initiative with ‘Pandamonium Hits Singapore’. greater fresh frontiers in wildlife attractions, with Asia’s fi rst bitter-sweet moment for us, letting them leave our collection. Singaporean freshwater crab that is among the 100 most Singapore Zoo was a fi nalist for the ‘Best Visitor Attraction and only river-themed wildlife park. Once again, we have But as they say, if you love them, you have to let them go. threatened species in the world. With our giant pandas Experience’ category. For individual awards, Ms Erniewaty brought into our highly-urbanised Singapore new dimensions Kai Kai and Jia Jia with us for 10 years, and celebrating in from Jurong Bird Park and Haniman Boniran from Singapore recreated from far-fl ung corners of this diverse life on Earth. At the same time, our small contribution towards fostering September their fi rst year of stay in Singapore, we took Zoo were fi nalists for the Best Customer Service in Visitor We have enabled our visitors to explore this vast globe in the national pride has a new springboard with the inaugural the opportunity to share best practices in panda care and Attraction category. form of – literally immersive – experiences of the freshwater Native Birds’ Day on 23 November 2013. We are excited to conservation. We also continued to support many research habitats of some of the world’s most iconic rivers – the Nile, nurture more awareness and affection for the more than 100 projects in Singapore and the region, including those on the It has been yet another wonderful year for WRS, with Amazon, Congo, Mississippi, Mekong, Yangtze and Ganges. species of birds native to Singapore, including the white- slow loris and proboscis monkey in Southeast Asia, and the outstanding attainment all-round, thanks to the dedication Our guests can also enjoy in this 12-ha park close encounters rumped shama, emerald dove, Oriental magpie robin, green common palm civet at home. of our passionate and professional team. I would also like with 6,000 animal specimens representing over 200 species, pigeon and Oriental white-eye. to thank our Board Members, shareholders, members of including three never seen before in Singapore, and of which Building awareness for conservation has a strong youth various committees, honorary consultants, sponsors, donors, 40 are threatened, such as our beloved giant pandas Kai Kai What’s more, we worked with the National Parks Board to element, and here, we strengthened our unique offering volunteers and friends, whose strong support has brought and Jia Jia. take native bird conservation right into the community in as a “living classroom”. School attendance for our four us into this new phase of our “integrated reserves” concept, the heartlands. A pair of black-naped orioles and a pair of parks totaled 192,560, the highest in 10 years, partly due and look forward to achieving and contributing much more The Singapore Zoo celebrated its 40th birthday with a big pink-necked green pigeons brought in by a member of the to the opening of River Safari. With the expansion of our together with all of you, in a brand new future. bash to top-off a year full of festivities. It was a fi tting tribute public were placed in a purpose-built aviary in And Mo Kio “integrated reserves” concept at WRS, we might have to to our fl agship attraction. It was also a time of nostalgia, Town West for seven days so that they could get used to reset our expected visitorship levels for the future. It is most of fond memories of signifi cant moments of heritage, such their surroundings before they were released into the wild of gratifying to us that we are able to reach out to even more as the fi rst orang utan birth in 1975. It has been a year of Singapore. people, and to touch more lives with the endless marvels of warm recollection, and also of renewed commitment to nature. continue to keep Singapore Zoo at the cutting-edge of Our breeding efforts of endangered birds have even gone wildlife presentation, conservation and research. Among the regional. After nursing them successfully for two years, ten Improvements at our other parks continued to enhance our highlights this year was the opening of Frozen Tundra for our Luzon bleeding heart pigeons were fl own “back home” visitor’s experience. At the Night Safari, the Indo-Malayan star polar bear Inuka, as well as other species such as the to the Philippines and released to the wild on the Polillo Relocation project came to fruition with the completion of rarely-seen raccoon and wolverine. Islands. This project is part of Jurong Bird Park’s fi rst off-site the new exhibit for the Malayan tiger, Asiatic black bear conservation programme involving an endemic species from and thamin. At Jurong Bird Park, the Waterfall Aviary was Chairman Just as Inuka is the fi rst polar bear born in the tropics, this the Philippines in the ASEAN region. Who knows, in future, relaunched, to refresh a much-loved spot since the 1970s. Wildlife Reserves Singapore year we celebrated more exciting new births, including some we might all look back on 2013-14 as the year our special already at the River Safari, in less than a year, such as the breed of “avian diplomacy” took off – literally.

4 5 BOARD OF DIRECTORS

MR PHILIP TAN MR CHIA NGIANG MR KAVIRATNE NIHAL MR RAYMUNDO A YU HONG VIJAYA DEVADAS CBE JR

CLAIRE CHIANG, Ms. Claire Chiang, Senior mission to “Embrace the enabling work environment Mr Tan was in the commerce Mr Chia Ngiang Hong has over Mr. Kaviratne’s career with Mr Yu has 30 years of experience Chairman Vice President, Banyan Tree Environment, Empower the to empower work fl exibility and industry sector for 11 years 30 years of experience in the Unilever spanned 40 years in the fi nancial industry. He is Wildlife Reserves Singapore, Holdings, is a co-founder People”. and engagement. prior to joining the banking and real estate industry. He fi rst in Asia, Europe and Latin currently Chairman of Asia Pacifi c fi nance sector. He joined the Wildlife Researves Singapore of Banyan Tree Hotels & graduated from the University America. He now serves as an at Threadneedle Investments. Overseas Union Bank in 1979, of Singapore with an Honours Conservation Fund Resorts, and also pioneered In April 2009, Ms. Chiang, In July 2014, she was independent, non-executive Before this, he spent 27 years in holding various senior positions Degree in Bachelor of Science Chairman/Director in various Merrill Lynch & Co and was the the group’s retail business in together with Mr. Ho Kwon elected as the Chairperson prior to his retirement in 2002 as (Estate Management) and later companies in India, Singapore Chairman of the Merrill Lynch 1996 which has since grown Ping, was a joint recipient of Executive Committee, Executive Vice President. obtained his Master in Business and Indonesia. These include group in Asia Pacifi c. to 60 over retail outlets of the Hospitality Lifetime National Book Development Administration with Distinction StarHub, SATS, DBS Bank, Olam, He is the founding chairman worldwide. Achievement Award at Council of Singapore. She is He holds a Bachelor of from the University of Hull, UK. Akzo Nobel, GSK and TVS. of Abilities Beyond Limitations the annual China Hotel a member of advisory board Accountancy from the University and Expectations (ABLE), a She serves also as the Investment Summit. The for Crib Pte. Ltd. She serves of Singapore and a Bachelor Mr Chia was with the DBS Half his time is spent on societal charity aligned to the physically Chairperson for China award was presented as the community advisor of Laws from the University of Group before joining City work as a Governing Board challenged community in Wolverhampton, UK. He also Business Development, to honour outstanding for Honour Singapore and Developments Limited (CDL) in Member of The Bombay Mothers Singapore. holds a post-graduate diploma 1981 where he is currently its & Children Welfare Society, where she primarily focuses individuals for a lifetime of was appointed by Ministry in Business Administration Group General Manager. and Founder of St. Jude India He also serves on the Board of on the acquisition of new extraordinary leadership, of Defence (MINDEF) as a from the Manchester Business ChiIdCare Centres to provide Rickmers (RMT), is a member management contracts, accomplishments and member in main ACCORD School, UK. He is a Fellow of the He has been serving as the Vice holistic care for needy children of the Asia Pacifi c Advisory and an Advisor to the contributions to the and the co-chairperson of Institute of Singapore Chartered President of the Real Estate suffering from serious diseases. Committee of Australian Super group on Human Capital hospitality industry. the ACCORD (Family & Accountants, CPA (Australia), Developers’ Association of He was the Founder President of and a member of the Global Development, where she Community Council). Most the Association of Chartered Singapore (REDAS) for many the International Wine & Food Advisory Committee of Bank guides key strategic issues Ms Chiang serves on recently in Aug 2014, she Certifi ed Accountants, UK and terms. He is also a fellow in the Society, Bombay Branch, and is a Julius Baer & Co Ltd. an Associate of the Chartered in organisational and human numerous public and was awarded the Public Singapore Institute of Surveyors Chevalier du Tastevin. Institute of Management, & Valuers (SISV). Mr Yu is also a Board of fellows capital capability. private Boards and has won Service Star BBM for her Accountants, UK. An Economics graduate from at the Thunderbird School national and international contribution in implementing Mr Chia has also served as Bombay University, he attended of Global Management in Ms. Chiang is also the awards for her advocacy work-life integration, as part Mr Tan is currently a director of a former Board Member the AMP at Harvard and the Glendale, Arizona, U.S.A. Chairperson of Banyan in social and community of Singapore’s commitment Union (2009) Limited, Alliance and subsequently as Deputy AEP at North Western. Cited Tree Global Foundation, issues. She is a member of to create fair, responsible Financial Group Berhad and Chairman of Building and in the Queen’s 2004 New Year He obtained his degree in an associate of Banyan the Tripartite Committee on and progressive work Alliance Bank Malaysia Berhad. Construction Authority (BCA). Honours List in the UK he was Business Administration from Tree Holdings that was Work-Life Strategy led by environment. Meanwhile He is currently the First Vice awarded the CBE for services Ateneo De Devao University Mr Tan retired from the Board established in March the Ministry of Manpower, Ms. Chiang was elected President of the Singapore to UK business interests and to and has an MBA in International of Wildlife Reserves Singapore, Green Building Council (SGBC). sustainable development. Management from the American 2009 as the sustainability the Chairperson of Employer as a Pioneering Member Singapore Zoological Gardens He is a member of the Charity Graduate School of International arm of the group. Her Alliance and Board member for the Diversity Action and Jurong Bird Park on 25th Council, Ministry of Culture, Mr. Kaviratne retired from the Management (Thunderbird). role involves directing of The Tripartite Alliance Committee to build up the August 2014. Community and Youth (MCCY) Board of Wildlife Reserves and guiding the evolving for Fair and Progressive representation of women and also a member of the Panel Singapore on 10th November process of the group’s Employment Practices directors on boards of of Assessors for National Council 2014. commitment to corporate (TAFEP) which is a network companies. on Problem Gambling (NCPG). social responsibility and its committed to creating an He chairs the Consultative Committee to the Department of Real Estate at National University of Singapore (NUS). He serves as a member of the NUS SDE School Advisory Committee (SAC) as well as a member of the Advisory Panel of the BCA Academy.

6 7 BOARD OF DIRECTORS

MR LEE KIM SHIN MR LIONEL YEO MR LEE MENG TAT MR KEE TECK KOON MR SIM HWEE CHER MS NEO GIM HUAY

Mr Lee holds a Bachelor of Mr Lionel Yeo is the Chief Mr. Lee Meng Tat is the CEO Mr Kee is currently the Non- Mr Sim Hwee Cher is PwC Ms Neo Gim Huay is the Laws, LLB (National University Executive of the Singapore of Wildlife Reserves Singapore Executive Chairman of Changi Singapore’s Vice Chairman of Managing Director of the of Singapore) and was called to Tourism Board. He was formerly (WRS). Prior to joining WRS, Airports International Pte. Ltd., Operations and the Head of Enterprise Development Group the Singapore Bar in 1986. the Dean & CEO of Singapore’s he was the Chief Corporate and Alexandra Health Fund Audit. He is also a member of in Temasek International Pte Ltd. Civil Service College, and Development Offi cer, Food & Ltd. He is also engaged as a the PwC Executive Board for The Enterprise Development Mr Lee had been a Partner Deputy Secretary (Development) Beverages of Fraser and Neave Corporate Advisor at Temasek Singapore, China, Hong Kong Group builds businesses, of the law fi rm of Allen & in the Public Service Division of Group (F&N) and he sat on the International Advisors Pte Ltd., and Taiwan. He has over 30 seeding, growing and nurturing and holds directorship positions Gledhill LLP since 1991 and the Prime Minister’s Offi ce. boards of a number of F&N’s years of audit experience and promising enterprises in in NTUC Enterprise Co-operative the Managing Partner of the F&B subsidiaries. has been actively involved partnership with the Temasek Ltd., NTUC Income insurance fi rm from August 2012 to 31 Lionel has been an offi cer of the in planning, executing and portfolio of companies and other Cooperative Ltd., Ascendas Pte December 2013. Singapore Administrative Service Before returning to F&N Ltd., CapitaLand Ltd., and Raffl es managing audits of large stakeholders. since 1996. He has previously (Singapore) in 2009, Mr Lee was Medical Group Ltd. companies in the manufacturing, He retired from the Board of served in the Ministry of Trade & on secondment to Asia Pacifi c real estate, construction, health Prior to Temasek, Gim Huay was Wildlife Reserves Singapore Industry, the Ministry of Finance, Breweries Ltd (APB) where he Prior to Mr Kee’s retirement care, insurance companies and an international management on 31 December 2013 to take the Ministry of Information was APB’s Regional Director in as the Chief Investment trading industries. consultant with McKinsey & up appointment as a Judicial and The Arts, and the Ministry China and concurrently held Offi cer of CapitaLand Limited Co in the United States and Commissioner of the Supreme of Community Development. the position of Chief Executive (“CapitaLand”) on 1 July 2009, Hwee Cher sits on the council Africa. She has also served in Court on 2 January 2014. Lionel also serves on the boards Offi cer of Heineken-APB (China) Mr Kee held several senior of the Institute of Singapore the Administrative Service of the of the Urban Redevelopment Management Services Co., Ltd. appointments within the Chartered Accountants (ISCA), Singapore Public Sector, with Authority, Sentosa Development CapitaLand Group. which sets the direction for the a focus on scenario planning, Corporation, National Healthcare Mr. Lee had held various Institute’s development and fi nance and international trade. Group Pte Ltd, Wildlife Reserves positions with Singapore Between April 2003 and January oversees its operations as a Singapore Pte Ltd and on the Tourism Board, Singapore 2007, he was responsible for whole. He is also a Fellow of the Gim Huay holds a MBA Board of Governors of Raffl es Economic Development Board, overseeing the CapitaLand Chartered Public Accountants of from Stanford University and Institution. Sembawang Leisure Pte Ltd, and group’s Financial, Commercial Australia and the Association of a Masters of Mechanical and Retail businesses. Prior DBS Bank Ltd. Chartered Certifi ed Accountants Engineering and Bachelor of Arts to that, he was the Managing He has a BSc in Economics of United Kingdom. from Cambridge University. Director and Chief Executive from the London School of Mr. Lee holds a Bachelor’s Offi cer of The Ascott Limited Economics and an MBA from degree in Mechanical from November 2000 to April Amongst other positions, he also She currently sits on the Board of the Massachusetts Institute of Engineering (National University 2003. is currently the Secretary General the Singapore National Library. Technology’s Sloan Fellows of Singapore), and an MBA from of National Council of Social Program. Imperial College (London), and Between 1996 and 2000, he was Service and Community Chest, had completed the Advanced the Managing Director and Chief and member of the NUS School Management Programme at Executive Offi cer of Somerset of Accounting Advisory Council. Harvard Business School. Holdings Limited, and was also an Executive Vice President at Pidemco Land Limited. Prior to that, Mr Kee held senior management appointments with several other organisations. He started his career in 1979 with the Singapore Armed Forces and the Ministry of Defence where he remained until 1991.

Mr Kee holds a Master of Arts in Engineering Science from Oxford University, United Kingdom.

Mr Kee Joined the Board of Wildlife Reserves Singapore on 1 May 2015.

8 9 COMMITTEE MEMBERS & SENIOR MANAGEMENT HONORARY CONSULTANTS

Expert Committee on Zoonoses Honorary Consultants Mr Lee Meng Tat Chief Executive Offi cer Chairman : Dr Leong Hon Keong Dr Tan Hwa Luck Dr Cheng Wen Haur Chief Life Sciences Offi cer Secretary : Dr Charlene Fernandez Dr Myra Elliott Ms Isabel Cheng Chief Marketing Offi cer Members : Dr Ooi Eng Eong Prof Soon-Chye Ng Mr Tan Choong Kiak Chief Financial Offi cer Dr Chan Kwai Peng Dr Koos van den Berg Mr Melvin Tan Acting Chief Operating Offi cer Dr Koh Tse Hsien Dr Curry Keoughan Mr Andrew De Silva Director Parks Operations Mr Lee Meng Tat Dr Anjulia Thomas Mr Barry Choong Director Estate Management Dr Cheng Wen-Haur Dr Frederic Chua Mr Cham Tud Yinn Director Exhibit Design Dr Serena Oh Dr Hsu Li Chieh Mrs Daisy Ling Director Corporate Services/Health, Safety, Mr Kumar Pillai Dr Chew Huck Chin Security & The Environment Ms Jean Tan Director Human Resources Ms Julie Yeong Director Sales Mr Kumar Pillai Director Zoology Mr Lee Chin Peng Director IT Ms May Lok Director Education Animal Welfare and Ethics Committee WRSCF Specialist Panel Mr Raja Segan Director Animal Presentation Chairman : Prof Leo Tan Dr Shawn Lum (Chairman) Dr Sonja Luz Director Conservation & Research Secretary : Dr Cheng Wen-Haur Dr Geoffrey Davison Mr Steven Tan Director Food & Beverage Members : Dr Chew Siang Thai Dr Astrid Yeo Mr Steven Wong Director Finance Dr Leslie Retnam Dr David Bickford Ms Linda Tan Assistant Director Retail Dr Tan Hwa Luck Dr Sonja Luza Dr Luis Carlos Neves Assistant Director Avian Mr Wong Tuan Wah Dr Leong Tzi Ming Dr Serena Oh Assistant Director Veterinary Dr Chris R Shepherd Dr Cheng Wen-Haur Mr David Lim Head Marketing Ms Grace Chua Dr Stephanie Ho Mr Lee Meng Tat

10 11 PARK ADOPTER ADOPTION ADOPTERS & DONORS RIVER SAFARI American Express International, Inc ...... Mississippi River Exhibit PARK ADOPTER ADOPTION CapitaLand Limited ...... Presenting Sponsor & Conservation Donor of Kai Kai & ...... Jia Jia JURONG BIRD PARK Adept Learning Pte Ltd ...... Kingfisher Exhibit Coca-Cola Singapore Beverages Pte Ltd ...... Scarlet Ibis American Express International, Inc ...... King of the Skies Show JTB Pte Ltd ...... Red Panda Exhibit Borden Company Pte Ltd ...... American Bald Eagle, Sue Allen & Eagle Statue M1 Limited ...... Jewel Tank Cheng Kim Loke Foundation ...... Bali Mynah Mitsubishi Corporation ...... Jaguar Cave Coca-Cola Singapore Beverages Pte Ltd ...... Malayan Fish Owl, Belang OCBC Limited ...... Emperor Tamarins Coca-Cola Singapore Beverages Pte Ltd ...... Pair of Scarlett Macaws from the High Flyers Show, Singapore Airlines Ltd ...... Official Airline of the Giant Panda Programme ...... Vega & Petina Singtel Mobile Singapore Pte Ltd ...... Congo Beauties Digiphoto Entertainment Imaging Pte Ltd ...... Macaw Island SPH Foundation Ltd ...... Amazon Flooded Forest Goodwood Park Hotel Limited ...... Brahminy Kite, Ronnie II The Shaw Foundation Pte ...... Manatee Feeding Program SMRT Corporation Ltd ...... Great Pied Hornbill Exhibit Unionpay International Co. Ltd ...... Squirrel Monkey Forest Hong Leong Foundation ...... 24 Flamingoes from the High Flyers Show United Overseas Bank Limited ...... Golden Pheasant Exhibit Lee Foundation Singapore ...... Penguin Coast M1 Limited ...... Malayan Fish Owl, Tupa SINGAPORE ZOO Abbott Laboratories (S) Pte Ltd...... Giraffe, Growie Protek Chemicals & Engineering Pte Ltd ...... White-collared Kingfisher Adept Learning Pte Ltd ...... Spotted Mousedeer Exhibit Puro Coffee Singapore Pte Ltd ...... Toco Toucan, Miko Akzonobel Paints (Asia Pacific) Pte Ltd...... Orang Utan, Merlin SPH Foundation Ltd ...... High Flyers Show American Express International, Inc ...... Splash Safari Show Starhub Mobile Pte Ltd ...... Scarlet Ibis Exhibit Asia Pacific Breweries (Singapore) Pte Ltd...... White Tiger Exhibit State Bank Of India (Singapore) ...... Flamingo Lake Australia And New Zealand Banking Group Limited ...... Australian Outback Sutera Harbour Resort ...... Lesser Bird of Paradise Exhibit Australian International School Singapore ...... Orang Utan, Banjo Thai Airways International Public Co. Ltd ...... Trams at Jurong Bird Park Borneo Motors (Singapore) Pte Ltd...... Cheetah Exhibit The Shaw Foundation Pte ...... Fly Pass Macaws from the High Flyers Show Cheng Kim Loke Foundation ...... Malayan Tapir Exhibit Unilever Singapore Pte Ltd ...... Harris Hawk, Angel Coca-Cola Singapore Beverages Pte Ltd ...... White Tiger, Omar ED & F Man Asia Pte Ltd...... Sugar Cane Plant at Tropical Crops NIGHT SAFARI American Express International, Inc ...... Creatures of the Night Show Future Electronics Inc (Dist) Pte Ltd...... Chimpanzee, Zanter Apple South Asia Pte Ltd ...... Leopard Exhibit Galborg Pte Ltd...... Chimpanzee, Nkosi Chemical Industries (Far East) Ltd ...... Malayan Tiger Viewing Shelter General Motors Overseas Dist. Corp.Of Singapore...... Agile Gibbon, Gangsa Coca-Cola Singapore Beverages Pte Ltd ...... Asian Golden Cat Exhibit Haw Par Corporation Ltd ...... Leopard Exhibit Goodwood Park Hotel Limited ...... Fishing Cat Trail Henkel Singapore Pte Ltd ...... Chimpanzee, Gangga Haw Par Healthcare Limited ...... Malayan Tiger Exhibit Hong Leong Foundation ...... Fragile Forest Exhibit JTB Pte Ltd ...... Sambar Deer & Elephant Exhibit Interbev (Singapore) Limited ...... Wildlife Healthcare & Research Centre Khoo Teck Puat Foundation ...... Fishing Cat Trail Ms Kay Kuok ...... Asian Elephant, Aprila M1 Limited ...... Giraffe Exhibit Kentucky Fried Chicken Management Pte Ltd...... Zebra Exhibit Mr Martin Storey ...... Babirusa Exhibit Lee Foundation Singapore...... Orang Utan, Chomel Mitsubishi Pencil Co Pte Ltd ...... Hippopotamus Exhibit Lee Foundation Singapore...... Tropical Crops Mr & Mrs Lim Soo Peng ...... Red Crowned Cranes M1 Limited...... Amhara Stone Village Exhibit Singapore Management University ...... Clouded Leopard Exhibit Malayan Banking Berhad...... Chimpanzee, Natty Singapore Refining Company Pte Ltd ...... Marsh Bird Exhibit Mitsui & Co. (Asia Pacific) Pte Ltd...... Penguin Exhibit Singtel Mobile Singapore Pte Ltd ...... Ankole Exhibit Mitsui & Co. (Asia Pacific) Pte Ltd...... Elephants at Work & Play Show Standard Chartered Bank ...... Greater Asian Rhinoceros Exhibit MP & Silva Pte Ltd...... Joko, Orang Utan Starhub Mobile Pte Ltd ...... Serval Segment-Creatures of the Night Show Mrs Christina Ong...... Orang Utans, Binte & Saloma Thai Beverage PLC ...... Asian Elephant, Chawang Ms Isabella Loh...... Orang Utan, Ishta The Shaw Foundation Pte ...... Slow Loris Exhibit Ms Serene Law...... Chimpanzee, Akinyi Unilever Singapore Pte Ltd...... Tarsier Exhibit Nicola Barrett...... Memorial Bench OCBC Limited ...... Wild Animal Carousel Pink Apple Pte Ltd...... Orang Utan, Ah Meng Jr Protek Chemicals & Engineering Pte Ltd...... Chimpanzee, Susie Renesas Semiconductor Singapore Pte Ltd...... Pelican Exhibit SMRT Corporation Ltd ...... Cotton-top Tamarin Exhibit SPH Foundation Ltd ...... Polar Bear, Inuka SPH Foundation Ltd ...... Proboscis Monkey Exhibit at SPH Conservation Centre Starhub Cable Vision Ltd...... Rainforest Fights Back Show Starhub Mobile Pte Ltd ...... Red Langur Exhibit State Bank Of India (Singapore) ...... Asian Elephant, Gambir Thai Airways International Public Co. Ltd...... Intan, Asian Elephant The Shaw Foundation Pte ...... The Shaw Foundation Amphitheatre True Heritage Brew (Singapore) Pte Ltd...... Chimpanzee, Togo Unilever Singapore Pte Ltd ...... Squirrel Monkey Exhibit Unionpay International Co. Ltd ...... Animal Friends Show United Overseas Bank Limited ...... Singapore Zoo Trams Walter AG Singapore Pte Ltd ...... White Tiger, Winnie Wearnes Automotive Pte Ltd ...... Jaguar Exhibit Wuthelam Holdings Pte Ltd ...... Rabbit Exhibit

12 13 YEAR IN REVIEW

• River Safari offi cially opens on 28 February 2014.

• Singapore Zoo marks 40th birthday on 27 June 2013.

• Opening of Amazon River Quest at River Safari.

• Opening of Frozen Tundra at Singapore Zoo.

• Indo-Malayan relocation project completed at Night Safari.

• 10 Luzon bleeding heart pigeons bred at Jurong Bird Park “fl own back” to their native Philippines, to boost the wild population on the Polillo Islands.

• Three Oriental pied hornbills bred at Jurong Bird Park released on Pulau Ubin, to increase the wild population in Singapore.

• Waterfall Aviary relaunched at Jurong Bird Park.

• Singapore Zoo is the 2013 Medallion Recipient for Organisations from the multi-agency GEMS Up movement for service excellence.

• Night Safari wins 11th honour as Best Visitor Attraction Experience at the STB Singapore Experience awards.

• Singapore Zoo’s ‘Wild Discoverer Tour’ is the joint winner for Best Travel Experience at the STB Singapore Experience Awards.

• ‘Pandamonium Hits Singapore’ wins Most Innovative Marketing Initiative award Experience at the STB Singapore Experience awards.

14 15 YEARBOOK 2013-14

RIVER SAFARI IN FULL FLOW

The Amazon River Quest takes visitors on adventure boat ride The Mekong River is home to some of the world’s largest to explore the amazingly rich Amazon forest and admire some freshwater fi sh such as the Mekong giant catfi sh, which can of its inhabitants including the world’s largest anteater, the be admired at River Safari. largest rodent and the largest wild cat of the Americas.

River Safari’s soft opening day ride include the capybara in this zone are the Squirrel on 3 April 2013 welcomed (world’s biggest rodent), Monkey Forest, a walk- close to 1,500 visitors. By giant anteater (world’s largest through exhibit that houses the end of the fi rst year, one anteater), and jaguar (South over 40 free-ranging squirrel million visitors (including close America’s biggest wild cat). monkeys, and the Amazon to 42,000 school children) Flooded Forest which had experienced the 12-ha The Amazon River Quest simulates the annual fl ooding park, the newest addition is part of the park’s Wild of the Amazon rainforest with to WRS’ portfolio of award- Amazonia zone which manatees and arapaimas With a symbolic row of the oars, Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong and Ms Claire Chang, Chairman, WRS, declared River Safari winning attractions, built at showcases the rich swimming amongst giant opened on 28 February 2014. a cost of $160 million. The biodiversity in the Amazon trees. rare animals on show include basin. The two other habitats freshwater giants such as River Safari was offi cially opened by the river giant otter, giant Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong on 28 salamander, Mekong catfi sh February 2014. It has opened up fresh and freshwater giant stingray. tributaries – literally and fi guratively – into Visitors can enjoy encounters new worlds of wildlife. Asia’s fi rst and with up to 6,000 animal only river-themed wildlife park brings specimens from over 200 into Singapore the freshwater habitats of species, including three never some of the world’s most iconic rivers, seen before in Singapore, and including the Mississippi, Nile, Ganges, of which 40 are threatened. Mekong, Yangtze and Amazon. The Amazon River Quest boat ride allows for a Freshwater habitats are an aspect that thematic exploration into this very few wildlife attractions showcase. mysterious rainforest region, But they are vital to all life forms, and are with visitors coming face-to- especially fragile, with freshwater species Manatees and River Safari’s team of aquarists at the world’s largest face with many animal species disappearing up to six times faster than freshwater aquarium in Amazon Flooded Forest, thanking Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong for gracing River Safari’s offi cial opening. living on the edges of the land and marine species. River Safari Amazon River. For the fi rst also hopes to inspire more people to do time in Singapore, visitors can their part to help preserve the supporting see the red-backed bearded environment for freshwater organisms to saki monkey, collared peccary, fl ourish and for continued supply of fresh The Squirrel Monkey Forest provides visitors with an immersive experience of and red howler monkey. walking through the home of some 40 free-ranging squirrel monkeys and viewing water to human civilisations. Other animals along the them at close quarters.

16 17 YEARBOOK 2013-14

Learning Journeys @ River Safari ZOO’S 40TH BIRTHDAY PARTY

River Safari also opened up new streams of knowledge, through learning journeys catering to different segments of visitors. These include interactive hands- on sessions such as the “Be A Panda Researcher”, “Water Wanderers”, “Otterly Amazing Amazon” and iPad Maths trails and guided tours around the Park. These activities were conducted not only for school visitors `Be A Panda Researcher’ programme allows participants to gain insights into the but also members of the work of a researcher. Participants seen here investigating what Kai Kai and Jia Mr SRNathan Sixth President of Singapore Jia had for breakfast by examining their poo. In the fi eld, researchers gain much and Ms Claire Chang, Chairman, WRS, public. River Safari is also understanding of an animal’s diet and prey population through examining its scat. Mr S R Nathan being greeted by Gambir, the Asian elephant at the Zoo’s 40th did the honour at the cake-cutting strategically positioned as a birthday party. ceremony. Living Classroom for learning the Chinese language. Singapore Zoo’s year- Training workshops for long birthday celebrations educators and resource culminated in a big birthday materials for different age bash on 27 June 2013, the groups are being developed date of its 40th birthday. progressively. Partying had gone on all year round, and Singaporeans For pre-schoolers, WRS joined in the celebrations worked closely with educators with 40 percent off admission to design Learning Journeys prices in July 2013. @ River Safari covering the six key learning areas in the Mr S R Nathan, Sixth The highlight of the birthday party was the surprise appearance of the orang utans, Ministry of Education’s revised President of Singapore, was the Zoo’s popular animal stars and fl agship species. kindergarten curriculum the special guest for the day, framework. Following the alongside those who have the zoo in the catchment 1980, and the release of the positive response to the book helped in the Zoo’s growth as forests around the Upper fi rst free-ranging animals in A New Home For Kai Kai An awesome encounter with the giant river otter. Animal ambassadors help to a world-renowned attraction, Seletar Reservoir. Since then, the zoo in 1992 – the squirrel And Jia Jia, another book create the emotive connection in visitors, motivating them to act for wildlife. including popular animal stars the Zoo has established monkeys, cotton-top tamarins The River Adventure Of Kai such as the orang utans. herself as one of the world’s and cotton-eared marmosets. Kai And Jia Jia was released. Giant panda-themed fi nest, not only for her unique Today, she has a collection Through the adventures of story books, available in Singapore Zoo fi rst opened collection of animals and of over 2,800 animals of over both English and Chinese, its doors to visitors on 27 immersive exhibits, but also 300 species, a quarter of the endearing black and white provide great teaching conservation ambassadors, resources for pre-school June 1973 with a collection for her leadership in service which are threatened. the book promotes values teachers and parents. of 272 animals representing excellence, conservation, such as respect for diversity 72 species. This was after education and recreation. The festivities for 2013 ended and caring for others. fi ve years of development with a slew of fun activities work which began in 1968 Some of the Zoo’s fondest including token feeding when Dr Ong Swee Law, memories include the fi rst surprises, games, mascot then Chairman of Singapore’s orang utan birth in 1975, the appearances and magic Public Utilities Board, opening of the Children’s shows during the year-end conceived the idea of locating Zoo and Adventureland in school holidays.

18 19 YEARBOOK 2013-14

rise, polar bears may become INUKA’S NEW PLAYGROUND extinct across most of their range within a hundred years.

As part of the publicity campaign to promote the Frozen Tundra exhibit, WRS worked with Kiss 92FM radio and Oreo on a contest which rewarded winners with the “coolest wildlife experience ever”. 16 winners were treated to a sleepover with Inuka, during which they 1 had the rare opportunity to meet Inuka’s keeper and help prepare meals for Inuka and his neighbours the raccoon dogs. They also created an enrichment device for Inuka’s other neighbours, the wolverines.

On Boxing Day 2013, Inuka Inuka moved into Frozen Tundra in late May 2013. His new home is four times larger than his previous and offers the creature comforts of a deep pool, a shaded outdoor area and an ice cave. turned 23 years old, and celebrated with a three-tiered The fi rst polar bear born in substrates have also been wolverines are a brother ice cake embedded with the tropics, the Singapore incorporated to provide him and sister pair named Boris his favourite food: salmon, Zoo’s very own Inuka, moved with a varied home. To make and Ivana from Russia’s herring, blueberries, apples into his new Frozen Tundra Inuka’s life as interesting Novosibirsk Zoo. and strawberries; and topped home in May 2013 during a as possible, his keepers with a frozen watermelon, grand ‘housecooling’ party. also provide him with an The idea of creating a whipped cream and a salad The 2,700 sq m exhibit enrichment programme which new habitat for Inuka was of mulberry leaves. Inuka 2 features climate-controlled includes `toys’ and activities conceptualised in 2006, and devoured his birthday treat resting areas, an expanded such as scatter feeding and Frozen Tundra was designed within half an hour, before pool for Inuka to swim in, and irregular feeding times. to not only give Inuka a diving into his pool for a swim two new sections for Inuka’s bigger space but also to raise in the rain. new neighbours, the raccoon The launch of Frozen Tundra awareness on global warming. dogs and wolverines. also showcases Inuka’s new Classifi ed as vulnerable by neighbours, the raccoon dogs the IUCN (International Union The polar bear exhibit had and wolverines. Raccoon for Conservation of Nature), been closed since 2010 and dogs, also known as tanuki, the bear occupies a narrow the new enclosure is four are native to East Asia. Frozen ecological niche and preys 1 Dr Lee Boon Yang, Chairman of SPH times larger than the previous Tundra’s raccoon dogs, Pom almost exclusively on seals and SPH Foundation, offi ciated the one. Some of the innovative and Poko came from Japan’s in the wild. Polar bears hunt launch ceremony of Frozen Tundra on features of Frozen Tundra Asahiyama Zoo. Wolverines mostly on ice fl oes in winter 29 May 2013. SPH Foundation is the long-time adopter of Inuka. that help enrich the new are the largest land-dwelling months, and retreating sea environment for Inuka are species of the weasel family. ice due to global warming has giant ice blocks for him to Native across the Northern resulted in the diminishing 2 The raccoon dogs at Frozen Tundra A `bearly’ close encounter with Inuka never fails to thrill the visitors. But more play with and relax on, and Hemisphere, wolverines have of their hunting grounds came from Japan’s Asahiyama Zoo importantly, such profound experiences are essential in creating the emotive an ice cave where he can adapted to a wide range and food sources. If global as part of the animal exchange link to inspire visitors to rethink how they can do their part for wildlife and the enjoy a polar siesta. Natural of habitats. Frozen Tundra’s temperatures continue to programme. environment.

20 21 YEARBOOK 2013-14

OUR LIVING COLLECTION Preparing River Safari to go on show Our living collection continues to expand to a total of 956 species, including 200 (21%) threatened species*. The number of specimens stands at 14,662, making WRS’ living collection one of the largest among wildlife institutions globally. The increase in the number of threatened species under our care, from 194 in the previous year to 200 strengthens our ex-situ conservation efforts as it presents greater opportunities for us to breed the species and participate in animal exchange with other wildlife institutions to enhance species genetic diversity globally.

*threatened species include animals that are extinct in the wild, critically endangered, endangered and vulnerable, classifi cation is based on IUCN Red List of Threatened Species.

EW – Extinct in the Wild 1 species (Scmitar Horned Oryx)

CR – Critically Endangered 25 species

EN – Endangered 71 species

VU – Vulnerable 103 species Fish out of water, but the mammoth task was completed fi nally! Transferring aquatic animals presents great challenges and requires careful planning and speed.

It was an absorbing and that can grow to an incredible result of pollution and dam- WRS Collection fulfi lling experience working length of 38 cm, and for its building. In Thailand, where to get the species and mighty ability to pull boats the sub-population has Non-Threatened Total Specimen 756 species (79% of total species) 14,662 exhibits ready at the River down into the Mekong River. dropped dramatically, the Safari. In July, a careful The array of Mekong giants giant stingray is listed as Total Species operation was conducted is thus complete, alongside critically endangered by the 956 by 20 staff to move a giant two other rare megafi shes IUCN (International Union for freshwater stingray, believed at the park’s Mekong River Conservation of Nature) Red Threatened species* to be the largest and heaviest zone – the giant Siamese carp List of Threatened Species. 200 (21% of total species) freshwater fi sh in the world, and the critically endangered By bringing visitors up close into the waters of the River Mekong giant catfi sh. to fascinating underwater Safari. This gargantuan animals such as the giant species can weigh up to 600 Found in river systems in freshwater stingray, River kg and grow up to 5 m in Thailand, Cambodia and Safari aims to highlight the length. Currently, it is only 2.4 Vietnam, the giant freshwater importance of freshwater m long and weighs 62.5 kg. stingray is under threat due to ecosystems and inspire It is known for its venomous overfi shing and degradation positive actions for conserving barb on the base of its tail of riverine habitats as a them.

22 23 YEARBOOK 2013-14

New arrivals Animal exchange programme

Babies always bring great Animal exchanges with our extremely diffi cult to keep in joy to our parks. Among the partner zoos around the zoos because of their special year’s most exciting births at world continued to help diet of mangrove leaves. WRS is that of Asia’s fi rst giant us manage our collection Singapore Zoo has been able river otter baby at River Safari. and breeding programmes, to meet the dietary needs Born on 10 August 2013, the Malayan tapir baby and also to enhance the of the proboscis monkeys unnamed male pup weighed well-being of the animals by offering them a variety of 1.6kg and measured 60cm. including three proboscis under our care, as well as to leaves collected from over 11 Giant otters can grow to an monkeys, a white rhinoceros, advance species biodiversity plant species, including the incredible length of 1.8m and a buffed cheeked gibbon, internationally. mulberry which is grown at weigh up to 34kg. three African penguins and a a farm in Lim Chu Kang and red-shanked douc langur. Two proboscis monkeys managed by Singapore Zoo River Safari is the fi rst moved to Appenheul Primate zoological institution in Asia For animal transactions, the Park, Netherlands, on loan. Other departures included to feature the endangered new acquisitions included four The Singapore Zoo holds the two chimpanzees moving Asia’s fi rst giant river otter baby giant river otter, the largest of Amur sturgeons from Malaysia largest number of proboscis to Mysore Zoo, India, in the world’s 13 otter species. for the Yangtze River zone at monkeys outside the natural exchange for a lion-tailed Found only in South American River Safari, a Malayan tapir range of the species in the macaque river systems, giant otters from Xiang Jiang Safari Park, wild. Proboscis monkeys are are ferocious predators that China, and a bongo from hunt piranhas, anacondas Taronga Zoo, Australia, for and even caimans, earning Night Safari; and a sloth bear them the title “river wolves”. from Mysore Zoo, India, for Often hunted extensively for Red howler monkeys Bali mynah chicks Singapore Zoo. their fur and threatened by habitat loss, these river giants Other new arrivals included are now amongst the world’s a pair of gila monsters rarest otters. from Malaysia, a black- handed spider monkey from This year, WRS had a total of Switzerland and 12 rock 698 successful births, of which hyraxes from South Africa. 182 represent threatened Two red-handed tamarins species, such as the orang Flamingo chicks King bird of paradise chicks and a black tufted marmoset utan, manatee, hyacinth arrived as donations from macaw and Malayan tapir. breeding for a long period starling and king bird of Hong Kong. Births of interesting species went into breeding mode, paradise. Also noteworthy is rarely seen in zoological including the greater the breeding of some of the Jurong Bird Park received collections were of the red fl amingo, with over 50 chicks smallest birds, such as the a Bali mynah from Durrell howler monkey, bearded reared this season. For the oriental white-eye, orange- Conservation Trust, UK; a saki monkey and the wild cat fi rst time in seven years, WRS cheeked waxbill, dusky munia Raggiana bird of paradise, jaguarundi, all from Central also bred the great argus and Gouldian fi nch. Mindanao bleeding-heart and South America. pheasant, mountain peacock- doves, Mount Goliath pheasant, Vietnamese At Night Safari, signifi cant lorikeet, a Chinese Hwamei Breeding at the Jurong Bird pheasant, Cape parrot, births included that of a and two Iris lorikeets from San Park improved further, with yellow-naped Amazon and spectral tarsier for the fi rst Diego Zoo; and two pairs of over 400 chicks hatching, greater hill mynah. Among time, and a Malayan tapir. The golden heart doves (endemic Preparing a proboscis monkey for its journey to Appenheul Primate Park, representing an increase by critically endangered species, Singapore Zoo improved on to Papua New Guinea) from Netherlands. Two proboscis monkeys were sent to the zoological institution as part 31% over last year. Several successful hatchings included its breeding successes with a Germany for breeding and of our efforts to help enhance the genetic diversity of this endangered monkey. species that had stopped the Bali mynah, black-winged number of signifi cant births conservation.

24 25 YEARBOOK 2013-14

Hornbills head back to the wild

the Park to increase the breeding genetic pool of the existing collection. Similarly, releasing three other birds to Pulau Ubin gives the wild Back to the wild fi nally! It is hoped that this hornbill, together with the bonded pair, would thrive and breed to help ensure the population of Oriental pied continuity of the species in wild Singapore. hornbills greater diversity in the genetic pool. conservation and research The Oriental pied hornbill The Oriental pied hornbills purposes. Conservationists disappeared from Singapore selected for release included can extrapolate from this in the mid-1800s, possibly a bonded pair which is data as a reference point due to hunting and loss of captive-bred and a male and make inferences on suitable habitats. In 1994, which was donated to the the general overview of the a pair was sighted on Park. To allow these birds to population, to understand the Pulau Ubin. Once virtually acclimatise to the wild, whole group’s dynamics, leading to disappeared from Singapore, fruit that can be found on better management of the the bird is today re- Pulau Ubin were introduced population. establishing healthy colonies 10 July 2014 – three Oriental pied hornbills were taken to Palau Ubin for release to into their diet as part of the here, thanks to the collective enhance the genetic diversity of the existing wild hornbill population in Singapore. preparation. They were also On 10 July, the bonded pair efforts of the NParks, Jurong species represented. The Park tested to be free from disease and one male hornbill set Bird Park, and Singapore has 17 Oriental pied hornbills, In an effort to diversify the institution to successfully before release. forth from Jurong Bird Park Avian Conservation Project some of which can be seen genetic pool of wild hornbills incubate and hatch three for Pulau Ubin to be released. (SACP). It has since been at the Hornbills & Toucans in Singapore, Jurong Bird Oriental pied hornbill eggs, Ahead of the release, the They joined an estimated 60 spotted in the wild on the exhibit. During breeding Park released three Oriental which had been rescued from Oriental pied hornbills Oriental pied hornbills on the mainland as well as other season from November pied hornbills from their Pulau Ubin by offi cers from had undergone a physical offshore island. The release offshore islands such as to March, cameras will be collection to Pulau Ubin in the National Parks Board measurement and health site was chosen as it is the Sentosa. installed in the Oriental pied July 2013. (NParks). These three chicks check. Data like the microchip same location from which hornbill exhibit, and visitors had been absorbed into the number, sex, age, body three Oriental pied hornbill Jurong Bird Park has one can catch a glimpse of nesting Earlier in March, the Bird Park’s collection. Retaining length and casque length eggs were rescued in January of the largest collections of activities through television Park became the world’s fi rst these three chicks enables were recorded and kept for 2013. hornbills globally, with 17 screens placed at the exhibit.

26 27 YEARBOOK 2013-14

Bleeding hearts fl y to the Philippines OUR ANIMAL CARE KNOWHOW

pigeons are very caring, often Of utmost importance in our work is the well-being of the species under our care. Beyond the preening each other and daily devotion to this by our teams, our Veterinary Department also works hard to help our staff their chicks. They will also increase their expertise and become even better at their jobs. WRS seeks to share what we sunbathe together. know about animal care at an increasing number of important conferences and meetings, and to gain and apply new knowledge from experts from around the world. Separately, a pair of Mindanao bleeding heart pigeons arrived at Jurong Bird Park from San Diego Zoo, USA, in September 2013, as part of an exchange programme. Although this pair was not known to be prolifi c breeders, they adjusted well to their new home and a few weeks after their arrival, they laid one fertile egg, which hatched Having bred the Luzon bleeding heart dove well, Jurong Bird Park sent ten birds after an 18-day incubation back to the Philippines to help repopulate the species in its native country. period. Another fertile egg was laid just before Christmas Love was in the air – literally of an agreement signed last year, which also yielded – as Jurong Bird Park with Avilon Zoo and the a chick. celebrated Valentine’s Day Department of Environment with a difference this year. and Natural Resources A two-pronged scientifi c After a successful two-year in the Philippines. These approach involving husbandry breeding programme, 10 birds started breeding from and diet was taken towards Luzon bleeding heart pigeon October 2012 and continued the successful breeding of progenies were fl own “back through January 2014 to the Luzon and Mindanao home” to the Philippines produce 10 progenies. bleeding heart pigeons. The Apart from a dental check, vets also performed a semen quality check on Kai Kai. The black and white bear passed with and released to the wild on Luzon bleeding heart pigeons a clean bill of health. It is hoped that he is able to mate successfully wiith Jia Jia and contribute to the conservation of the Polillo Islands. The Luzon All bleeding heart pigeons were placed in an off-site their species. bleeding heart pigeon is and golden heart doves are aviary with minimal human a threatened species, with part of a group of Australasian contact, while a specialised Combined Veterinary Veterinarians (UPAV) and Zoo was the venue for the declining numbers in the wild pigeons called ground doves, diet with increased protein Conference 2013 Association of Avian workshops. due to deforestation and the known to be very faithful to levels provided for added Veterinarians Australasian illegal pet trade. their partners until death. nutrients during the breeding WRS co-organised with Committee (AAVAC). Acquiring panda Some 400 veterinarians, Only when one dies will the season. Although the the Singapore Veterinary knowhow The project is Jurong other look for another to pair Mindanao bleeding heart Association a two-day veterinary students and Bird Park’s fi rst off-site up with. Upon becoming pigeons were placed in a combined veterinary nurses attended from In October 2013, vets conservation project involving parents, both males and visible public enclosure, conference, and a one-day countries such as Malaysia, looking after pandas in Asia an endemic species from the females will take turns to the aviary was properly rabbit and rodent dental Indonesia, Thailand, Laos, came together at WRS to Philippines in the ASEAN incubate the eggs. For the landscaped, to provide the workshop and reptile Vietnam, Cambodia, Korea, discuss best practices in region. Recognising Jurong fi rst few days of a chick’s life, birds with a heightened sense endoscopy workshop, in Japan, Australia, UK, USA, veterinary care and medical Bird Park’s expertise in the chick is fed crop milk of security necessary for October. The conference Iran, UAE and South Africa. husbandry for giant pandas. conservation and breeding, produced by both parents. breeding. Similarly, they were also involved the Asian Six conference streams Representatives included two pairs of Luzon bleeding Once the chick is older, also given a protein-rich diet Society Zoo and Wildlife ran concurrently with 133 vets from China, Thailand, heart pigeons arrived in the both parents will forage for during breeding season. Medicine (ASZWM), different topics and 60 Taiwan, Hongkong, Macau park two years ago as part food for the young. These Unusual Pets and Avian posters. The Singapore and Malaysia. It was a

28 29 YEARBOOK 2013-14

Enhancing Breeding Success

Performing assisted from Smithsonian fi ve of our female elephants reproductive technique to Conservation Biology and on our two female Indian enhance breeding success Institute and her technician, rhinoceros over a period of of selected species is an Joanna Wright, were a day. important function of the engaged for two weeks to Veterinary team and an train the Endocrine Analyst 36 year-old female Indian integral part of WRS’ ex- and other Veterinary staff on rhinoceros “Gomati” was situ effort in conserving endocrine testing. anaesthetized to conduct threatened animals. With an ultrasound of her an additional member - an Reproductive specialists Dr reproductive tract. At the Endocrine Analyst – joining Thomas Hilderbrandt and Dr same time, a radiograph of the team, its expertise Robert Hermes from Leibniz her feet was carried out. She in assisted reproductive Institute for Zoo and Wildlife recovered uneventfully from technique is strengthened. Research were engaged the anaesthesia even though Deepened the expertise to conduct reproductive there was a high risk due to further, Dr Janine Brown, ultrasound examinations on her age. Reproductive Physiologist,

The lifespan of polar bears in the wild is 25 to 30 years but they can live much longer under human care. Inuka was born on 26 Dec 1990; at 25 he is generally healthy except for minor age-related conditions, which are managed by the vets.

platform for vets to exchange work never ends, with our Inuka was found to be in information based on each team always keeping a keen general good health for his country’s experience in eye on the health of all the age. He currently measures looking after their own animals in our collection. 2.5m from nose to tail, and pandas. Topics include Preventive veterinary care weighs 532kg. The hour- reproduction monitoring, which includes vaccination, long medical examination nutrition, dental issues, deworming and regular included dental, aural and enrichment and husbandry health checks is critical to paw checks. Blood results issues related to clinical well-being of animals. On show no abnormality in his matters. 28th March 2014 our six-year- kidneys and liver. There are old giant panda, Kai Kai was some warty growths on the From 7th to 13th November anaesthetised for his annual underside of his tongue, and 2013, a veterinarian and a checkup, dental treatment a biopsy was done to confi rm panda keeper from WRS and electro-ejaculation to if they are benign and can were in Chengdu, China, to check his semen quality. be left alone. Inuka’s teeth attend a Panda Conference Radiographs and ultrasound also needed some attention, on Reproduction and examinations were carried which was to be expected Reintroduction of the Giant out. All the routine tests at his age. X-rays of his Panda and on Disease showed normal results. lower limbs confi rmed what Prevention and Control. his vets have suspected for Zoo vet Dr Abraham performing an ultrasound scan on one of our female elephants. Investigation of this nature provides In October 2013, a health some time that he has mild valuable information on the health of the reproductive system of our animals. Animal health checks check was conducted for arthritis on his ankle and wrist Inuka, Singapore Zoo’s joints. The vets prescribed The Veterinary Department’s 22-year-old polar bear, as medications as required. he enters his senior years.

30 31 YEARBOOK 2013-14

which were confi scated from smugglers by the Agri-Food CONSERVATION & RESEARCH and Veterinary Authority of Singapore in 2009 and donated to Singapore Zoo. It is hoped that the pair will breed and This year, WRS continued its investment in building up its international thought leadership establish an assurance colony in Singapore Zoo. in preserving and conserving the precious biodiversity of planet Earth. WRS hosted fi ve workshops and conferences, over ten public events and supported many projects. The focus on Ploughshare tortoises are prized for their beautiful high- species that are native to Singapore and the Asian region was intensifi ed. domed shells. Although fully protected by legislation, they are being pushed closer to the brink of extinction due to illegal collection and export to meet the international demand for the pet trade, especially in Southeast Asia, where they are sold Working with Conservation Partners in markets particularly in Indonesia, Malaysia and Thailand.

Save the Sumatran rhino Freshwater crab conservation roundtable The Sumatran Rhino Crisis Summit was held at the Singapore Zoo in April 2013. Over 100 delegates from around the world discussed the future of the Sumatran rhino and developed an emergency plan to prevent its extinction. The Land Empowerment Animals People organisation facilitated the summit, with examples from previous conservation successes The Sumatran rhino is one of the most endangered animals on Earth. There (such as with African rhinos and the Californian condor). A are fewer than 200 Sumatran rhinos public seminar to raise awareness of the plight of rhinos left in the world. drew over 60 participants from the Agri-Food and Veterinary Authority, Wildlife Conservation Society, National Parks Board, National University of Singapore and Banyan Tree Global Foundation.

Tattoo the tortoise Johora singaporensis is Singapore’s very own freshwater crab, found nowhere else in the world. The inaugural Conservation Roundtable took us one step closer to Tattoos were called into play in the global campaign for protecting Singapore’s nature heritage for future generations. Over 100 delegates from different preserving biodiversity, when conservation organisations parts of the world met at the fi ghting to save one of the world’s most threatened tortoises Sumatran Rhino Crisis Summit to map Experts gathered in Singapore in March 2014 at the inaugural out strategies to save the Sumatran from poachers resorted to a drastic measure – engraving rhinos. identifi cation codes onto the animals’ shells to reduce their Roundtable on Freshwater Crab Conservation with special black market value. Found only in north-western Madagascar, reference to Johora singaporensis, to work out how to save the ploughshare tortoise is critically endangered and only an the critically endangered freshwater crab, which is among estimated 400 adults remain in the wild. Engraving a tortoise’s the 100 most threatened species in the world. Found only in shell makes it less desirable to traffi ckers and easier for Singapore and fi rst discovered and described in 1986, it grows enforcement agencies to trace. up to 3cm across the carapace (shell) and up to 5cm with legs stretched out. It performs an important role in the proper Four organisations – WRS, the wildlife trade monitoring functioning of hill streams by helping in nutrient recycling, and network TRAFFIC, Durrell Wildlife Conservation Trust and is potentially an indicator of pollution and climate change. Turtle Conservancy – came together to hold a “Tattoo the Tortoise” event in December 2013 at the Singapore Zoo to The conference, attended by 40 participants, was organised The ploughshare tortoise at in partnership with the National University of Singapore’s Singapore Zoo was symbolically raise awareness of the plight of the ploughshare tortoises engraved to raise awareness of the and to build support to fi ght traffi cking of the species. Dr Department of Biological Sciences, National Parks Board and plight of the species, which has Tsanta Rakotonanahary, a veterinarian from the Durrell Wildlife the International Union for Conservation of Nature. A public been severely threatened because seminar shared the roundtable outcomes, which include of poaching for the illegal pet trade Conservation Trust, engraved the ploughshare tortoises, suggestions and actions for implementation of a conservation plan for Johora singaporensis.

32 33 YEARBOOK 2013-14

First-ever pangolin conference Conservation Fund’s (WRSCF) efforts to conserve endangered native wildlife, such as the Sunda pangolin. . This conference was also supported by the Zoological Society of London, San Antonio Zoo, the Houston Zoo, TRAFFIC and Ocean Park Conservation Foundation, Hong Kong.

To further raise public awareness, a public seminar was held, a series of four talks by experts – on trade in wildlife for meat and medicines by Chris Shepherd, Acting Regional Director for Pangolins are heavily hunted and TRAFFIC in Southeast Asia; on new technology for addressing illegally traded mainly for their illegal wildlife trade by Jonathan Baillie, Conservation scales, which are believed to cure anything from skin diseases to Programmes Director, Zoological Society of London, and impotence. Pangolin foetuses are Co-Chair of the IUCN-SSC Pangolin Specialist Group; on the also used to prepare tonic brews. pangolin trade in Asia by Dan Challender, Co-Chair of the IUCN-SSC Pangolin Specialist Group; and on conservation efforts in Singapore by Razak Jaffar, Assistant Curator, Night Safari.

There is renewed hope for the threatened pangolins, with WRS partnering the International Union for Conservation of Nature Species Survival Commission (IUCN-SSC) Pangolin Specialist Group to hold the fi rst-ever global conference for some 50 researchers in Singapore in June 2013 on these shy, nocturnal creatures which for years have been under threat from poachers for their meat and scales. Over the years, Night Safari fi netuned husbandry methods and achieved a global Pangolins are anteaters with `scales’, fi rst: The world’s fi rst institution to breed successfully and raise which are actually modifi ed hairs. the Sunda pangolin under human care. . They can be found in Asia and Africa. Of the eight species of pangolins, six are threatened by the While they may look like walking pine-cones, pangolins, illegal trade. or scaly-anteaters as they are also known, are one of the most traffi cked mammals in Asia, and increasingly, in Africa. Globally, they are illegally traded in the tens of thousands each year, especially to China and Vietnam where they are considered a delicacy and their scales used in traditional medicines.

Themed ‘Scaling up Pangolin Conservation’, the four-day conference aimed to devise an overarching conservation strategy to be a global voice in the protection and conservation of pangolins, improve conservation efforts with specifi c and measurable initiatives, and provide input into formal IUCN Red List assessments to reassess their status to further protect the species. The conference is part of WRS

34 35 YEARBOOK 2013-14

REGIONAL PROJECTS SUPPORTED BY WRS Philippine cockatoos WRS helps to conserve the critically endangered Philippine 1 River terrapins in Cambodia and Myanmar cockatoo through supporting a project undertaken by Katala Institute for Ecology and Biodiversity Conservation WRS and the Wildlife Conservation Society (WCS) continued in the Philippines. The project focuses on improving the joint efforts for the conservation of endangered turtles in rescue procedures of Philippine cockatoo and to enhance Southeast Asia. This year, WRS supported genetic analysis rehabilitation efforts so as to increase the number of birds of 130 critically endangered Southern River Terrapin Batagur suitable for release and reintroduction. The project also works affi nis in Cambodia, to identify the 20 individuals most suitable to better present the Philippine cockatoos to members of the to form an assurance colony for the species at Singapore Zoo. public for better understand of conservation needs and more Research also commenced on the Burmese roofed terrapin effective conservation messaging. Batagur trivittata. A team from WRS participated in a fi eld trip To help save the Philipppine to Myanmar in May 2013 to collect tissue samples of 1,060 cockatoo, WRS participates in captive specimens. fi eld conservation work and ex- situ conservation by keeping these Palawan pangolins, Philippines 1. critically endangered birds in Jurong Urgent conservation work is of paramount importance in saving this terrapin, Bird Park for breeding, and as which was once thought to be extinct until, in 2001, a very small population of ambassadors to generate public WRS is funding a study on the Palawan pangolin, which is 2 nesting females was rediscovered. awareness. threatened because it is in high demand for international trade 2. of skin, scales and meat. Some 165 hunters and farmers from Tissue samples of 130 Southern river terrapins were taken for genetic 16 municipalities in Palawan, Philippines, were interviewed on analysis for selection of 20 most suitable individuals to form an assurance colony for the species. observations of pangolins. They named secondary lowland forest, primary lowland forest and agricultural ecosystems as the primary habitats of pangolins. This has helped identify a methodology for the detailed survey of pangolins in this region. It is expected that this study will contribute to the Slow lorises and orang utans, Indonesia evidence needed to change the Palawan pangolin’s IUCN status from “near threatened” to “vulnerable”. In Indonesia, slow lorises and orang utans are at risk of WRS funds a study to gather extinction from habitat loss and illegal trade. WRS is information about the habitats of supporting Yayasan IAR Indonesia (YIARI) to rescue, the Palawan pangolin. The study Photo by Fong Chee Wai rehabilitate and conduct controlled and systematic involves the local community Wild elephants, Malaysian rainforest Apart from habitat destruction, slow reintroduction and translocation of these endangered through interviews with some 165 lorises are hunted for the illegal pet hunters and farmers. primates back to their native habitats. IAR also works This project will be the fi rst to study the social organisation of rade. Being venomous animals, their Asian elephants in the tropical rainforest. It proposes to use teeth are often extracted before alongside the Indonesian Forestry Department to reduce smugglers take them across borders. wildlife trade, and conduct awareness programmes through camera traps to identify individual animals visiting mineral the media to improve protection of wildlife. licks in Belum-Temengor Forest Complex in Perak, Malaysia, to study the social organisation and stability of wild elephant groups in the forest. The results will be helpful to design the desirable composition of Asian elephant social groups under Palawan forest turtle, Philippines human care, to understand population trends in the wild, and to design science-driven management methods, especially in WRS is supporting a project by the Katala Institute for relation to translocation policies. Ecology and Biodiversity Conservation in the Philippines to improve the captive breeding facilities for the Palawan forest For over 80 years, the exact turtle. At the Institute’s only range assurance colony for the geographical distribution of the turtle, this project proposes landscaping of enclosures to Palawan forest turtle remained a enhance access to areas of shade and seclusion; research on mystery. The lack of information and the rarity of the turtle make breeding behaviour through regular, detailed observation; and conservation work in the wild all continued efforts to determine an optimal diet. the more challenging supporting captive breading is one way in which WRS helps to conserve the turtle. 36 37 YEARBOOK 2013-14

Combating Bali’s illegal wildlife trade from 2011 involved the fl ooding of primary rainforests and indigenous lands where old hilltops have now become WRS is supporting an inaugural assessment project by landbridge islands. The indigenous Orang Ulu has since been TRAFFIC, the wildlife trade monitoring network, on illegal resettled but much less is known about the status of native wildlife trade in Bali. This will ensure better understanding of animals that once inhabited these forests. This study provides the issues, to assist enforcement efforts to eliminate the illegal important insights into how such development initiatives affect trade of wildlife in Bali, including in ivory and dugongs. Peer- the natural environment and help improve policy decisions reviewed reports produced by TRAFFIC have led to increased regarding the tradeoffs between economic benefi t and pressure on the countries identifi ed as not taking action to environmental conservation. shut down illegal trade. The information gathered will be used widely to inform decision-makers and raise public awareness. Proboscis monkeys, Borneo

Most threatened species, Java and Sumatra This study to reassess the status and extinction risk of the endangered and endemic proboscis monkeys in Sabah, East WRS is supporting the Cikananga Conservation Breeding Malaysia, and Balikpapan Bay, Kalimantan. WRS has been Center on a project to expand existing captive colonies of four committed to proboscis monkey conservation since 2004, Javanese and one Sumatran endemic species in agreement with the fi rst comprehensive statewide survey of the species’ with IUCN priorities. The effort is to reduce the very high risk population and conservation status conducted in Sabah, of short-term extinction of the Javan warty pig, black-winged East Malaysia. Trends of habitat loss observed a decade starling, Javan green magpie, rufous-fronted laughing thrush on indicate that the species may be declining more rapidly and Sumatran laughing thrush. This year saw the continuing than expected. At the XXIV International Primatological ongoing trial reintroduction of black-winged starlings, and The photos show destruction of the Society Congress Meeting in 2012, increasing threats to the research on the conservation needs and options for the other habitat of the proboscis monkey proboscis monkey were recognized, with the species listed as a result of fi re and conversion to four species. palm oil plantations. amongst 16 highly threatened species that fall just outside of “The World’s 25 Most Endangered Primates”.

Tonkin snub-nosed monkey, Vietnam Coffee and primates, Java WRS continued to support Tonkin snub-nosed monkey conservation this year, an ongoing effort since 2009. This The “Coffee and Primate Conservation” project in monkey is a critically endangered species, in danger of Sokokembang, Central Java, Indonesia seeks to better extinction due to its very small remaining population. Having conserve Javan gibbons and other primate species through established effective monitoring and protection of a sizable engaging the local community to improve the production population in Khau Ca, Vietnam, over the past few years, the of shade coffee for economic subsistence. This method of project will move towards another critical phase, to examine growing coffee preserves natural forests and minimises natural their population genetics to assess extinction risks due to habitat exploitation by local inhabitants. The local community inbreeding pressure. The project team will also maintain is also empowered to participate in direct conservation continued presence of rpark rangers to deter encroachment activities such as participatory forest patrol and scientifi c and poaching. research, and raising conservation awareness. This project is run by a local Javanese team dedicated to the protection of The Tonkin snub-nosed monkey their own natural heritage. is one of the top 25 most By supporting a project that endangered primates in the world. Primates and mammals, Borneo grows coffee in the shade and By provide funds to patrol its therefore eliminates the need to habitat to prevent illegal logging destroy the forest for cultivation, and poaching, WRS is helping WRS is supporting a study to assess the benefi ts and we are helping to preserve the to prevent its extinction. The consequences of the construction of the Bakun Hydroelectric home of the Javan gibbon and good news – about 104 snub- other species. At the same time, nosed monkeys have reproduced Dam in Sarawak on primate and mammal species, as well the project benefi ts the locals by successfully. Just in 2103 alone, as the socio-economic impact on the resettled indigenous generating income and empowers there were 12 newborn. people. The operation of the concrete-face rock-fi ll dam the community in protecting their nature heritage. 38 39 YEARBOOK 2013-14

REGIONAL PROJECTS SUPPORTED BY WRS Research and Conservation of the common palm civet by Sivasothi, Fung Tze Kwan and Dr Christina Colon The civet and seed dispersal This project aims to investigate the ecology of the common The common palm civet is native to Singapore and may play palm civet in urban and secondary forest environments in an important role in seed dispersal for forest species. To better Singapore, including information such as home range, habitat understand its feeding ecology, WRS is supporting a study use, feeding and seed dispersal potential. to examine common palm civet gut passage time and effect A common palm civet caught on on seed viability and germination success and seed dispersal camera trap installed on the island processes. This effort complements a WRSCF-supported of Pulau Ubin. project to study the ranging patterns of the species. Coral Reef Restoration by Lionel Ng Chin Soon Many fruit-eating animals help to regenerate forests by passing out the seeds of the fruit they eat, This project is the fi rst to revisit the coral reef restoration thereby dispersing them at suitable Colobine monkeys’ diet and physiology efforts of the past decade so that long-term data can be locations for germination. obtained to assess existing approaches and support reef Colobine monkeys are historically diffi cult to maintain in restoration in Singapore. This can be done by assessing captivity due to their specialised diet. They have special the current status – growth, survivorship of naturally digestive adaptations so they can survive mainly on leaf diets. recruited biota on REUs (Reef Enhancement Units) as well as WRS is supporting a study to examine the diet and physiology transplanted corals on the reefs and seawalls – to evaluate if of Colobine monkeys at Singapore Zoo to contribute to better a REUs, with naturally recruited corals and transplanted corals, knowledge on the digestive patterns of these primates and to have established themselves onsite. Photo (a) shows a Reef aid management of their dietary husbandry. Enhancement Unit (REU) on a reef at Pulau Satumu. REUs are made of fi berglass with calcium carbonate Urban ecology of bats in Singapore by added to encourage coral Benjamin Paul Lee Yi-Hann development. Holes are cut in the wall to allow water to fl ow through. This study seeks to understand the impact of urbanisation PROJECTS SUPPORTED BY WRS on bat species and their interface with humans, to contribute to better urban planning that encompasses biodiversity CONSERVATION FUND (WRSCF) conservation; increase awareness and build capacity for citizen science for conservation of bat species. Habitat enrichment for tropical butterfl ies by Anuj Jain Spatial ecology of the reticulated python in This project aims to measure the effect of habitat enrichment urban Singapore by Mary Ruth Low Ern-Lyn on butterfl ies by fi rst measuring the existing resources available and their use across habitat types. Thereafter, b This study investigates the ecology of a frequently additional resources in the form of potted larval host and encountered large snake in a densely populated island nectar plants are placed at the site and the response of the Photo (b) A colony of Acropora with an urban landscape matrix (human-snake confl ict). coral growing on the REU, an Gaining insights into the behaviour and movement patterns butterfl ies are evaluated by the difference in recruitment of encouraging sign that the REUs are larval host plants, larval survivorship and adult abundance. serving their purpose of enhancing of translocated snakes will allow for improved wildlife coral development. management. Photo by Wikipedia Commons/ Yathin S Krishnappa The common rose butterfl y is Long-term viability of four species of babblers quite common in Singapore. Most butterfl ies are nectar-feeders and of Singapore by Cros Emilie Sidonie in the process of feeding, they help to pollinate fl owers, resulting This research aims to analyse the genetic diversity of the in fruit production. Singaporean populations of four species of babblers, to determine patterns of connectivity and gene fl ow, and to assess the viability of the population.

40 41 YEARBOOK 2013-14

“Snakes of Singapore” phone app Sharing Sessions

WRS continued to to generate public awareness and invest in building capacity on wildlife knowledge for WRS staff. The talks over the year included these topics:

• The wildlife trade of tokay geckos by Dr Chris Shepherd, Deputy Regional Director for TRAFFIC (the event was funded by WRSCF and Bayan Tree Global Foundation)

• The future of the proboscis monkey and the threats they face in Kalimantan, by Dr Stanislav Lhota, Czech University of Life Science, Prague.

• The current status of giraffes in Africa and latest fi ndings The `Snakes of Singapore’ phone app aims to encourage people to appreciate The tokay gecko is so named of genetic analysis regarding classifi cation of subspecies, snakes as part of our ecosystem and to learn to live alongside these reptiles. because of its `to-kay, to-kay’ croaking calls. The demand of this by Dr Julian Fennessey, one of the foremost experts on reptile has skyrocketed since 2009 giraffes and co-chair, IUCN SSC Giraffe and Okapi With recent trends such as more people exploring forested because of rumours that its body Specialist Group. parts can cure Aids. To help stop areas for nature walks, cycling and other recreation, there have the illegal trade, WRS works with been more reports of encounters with snakes. WRS is doing its TRAFFIC to generate awareness of • The ecology, distribution and feeding behaviour of the part to help promote public awareness of snake species and of the plight of the tokay gecko. Yunnan snub-nosed monkey in their natural habitats, and how to be comfortable with their coexistence with Singapore’s the threats and concerns faced, by Dr Cyril Grueter. urban development. A useful awareness tool – the “Snakes of Singapore” smartphone app, funded by the WRS Conservation • How palm oil plantations in Indonesia are increasing Fund, was launched this year. This app received the Mobex deforestation, hunting and illegal wildlife trade, by Award 2014 as the most informative use of mobile. Dr Karmele Llano Sanchez, International Animal Rescue Foundation, Indonesia.

STUDENT PROJECTS

WRS supervised and facilitated seven student projects from Nanyang Technological University, Temasek Polytechnic and Ngee Ann Polytechnic in their fi nal year projects in 2013, refl ecting WRS’ dedication to conservation research and nurturing future science researchers.

The projects included these topics:

• Effects of relocation on the activity pattern, social interaction and spatial use of a mixed group of manatees • Behaviour of a pair of Asian golden cats at Night Safari • Behaviour of spectral tarsiers at Night Safari Manatees at River Safari • Estrous cycle behaviour and reproductive pathology in an ageing female Malayan tapir in captivity at Night Safari • Establishing the reference ranges of total and differential leukocytes and erythrocytes count for Asian elephants • Comparative nutritional ecology of Cercopithecids (a group of old world monkeys) • Ex-situ conservation of the rhinoceros hornbill at Jurong Bird Park Photo by Fong Chee Wai Spectral tarsier 42 43 YEARBOOK 2013-14

release into the wild. These two The participating students not only gained insights into TOUCHING HEARTS, INSPIRING ACTION pairs of native birds were taken conservation fi eld work and related issues but also were This year, WRS continued to ensure that its attractions and activities connected well with the to Jurong Bird Park by a member inspired to do part their part for the environment, as one growing awareness of, affi nity with, and affection for, wildlife among the parks’ visitors. School of the public. Veterinarians student puts it : rehabilitated and nursed them attendance for the four parks totaled 192,560, the highest in 10 years, partly due to the “Despite the simplicity of their life, the villagers all back to health, including hand- opening of River Safari, which has further expanded the “integrated reserves” concept of WRS. seemed very happy. It makes me think about what raising them until they were old Many events with strong conservation messages were held throughout the year, to cater to the I have and how I appreciate them now. I will not litter enough to eat on their own. many different audience segments and interest groups. to have a better environment. “ Ex-Situ and In-Situ Artists go wild Animals featured in the through a host of engaging exhibition were species often activities including an expert Conservation Education hunted in the wild, or farmed, forum, a bird photography – Making The Connection Art and animals came to feed continuing consumer trail, a photography exhibition together when Night demand for animal parts for and fun activities for children. Wildlife Reserves Singapore Safari’s “Art Seen & Herd!” use in traditional medicine, The more than 100 species works with many partners exhibition was held in despite the presence of of birds native to Singapore to promote conservation June 2013 in celebration synthetic substitutes or there include the white-rumped education. The eco-trip to of World Environment Day. being no real evidence of that shama, emerald dove, Oriental Balikpapan organized jointly Visitors were treated to a these treatments work. magpie robin, green pigeon with the Institute of Technical and Oriental white-eye. Education College West, was one such initiative to provide As part of Native Birds’ Day, youths with an opportunity to Jurong Bird Park and NParks learn about ex-situ conservation A great learning journey for the students as they navigated through a sea of work and subsequently made mangrove roots to learn about the important role of mangrove forests in a joined hands to place a pair coastal ecosystem. of pink-necked green pigeons the connection with in-situ and a pair of black-naped conservation through working orioles into a purpose-built with a primatologist in rehabilitation aviary at Ang the fi eld. Mo Kio Town Garden West to ‘Art Seen & Herd’ empowers the artists to do their part for wildlife and redefi nes how the conservation message can reach the community by efforts acclimatised them for eventual The trip comprise three of the community. phases, the fi rst was a full-day National pride fl ies programme in Singapore Zoo, visual bonanza as four of during which the students gained Singapore’s street artists let high insights into Wildlife Reserves their imaginations go wild Singapore’s ex-situ conservation with artworks inspired by National pride fl ew high in work. This was followed by a threatened animals, to spread a new way, when Jurong 10-day eco-trip during which the awareness about poaching Bird Park paid tribute to students participated in surveys and dwindling wildlife Singapore’s native birds with of proboscis monkeys, Irrawaddy Primatologist Stanislav Lhota sharing the ecology of the mangrove forest with populations. a two-day festival to mark dolphins, bats and mangrove the students, who came to appreciate how the health of mangrove forests is the inaugural Native Birds’ vegetation. They also made closely intertwined with the survival of wildlife and humans. The four artists – Michael Day on 23 November 2013. fi eld trips to a primary rainforest Ng (‘Mindfl yer’), Samantha The event was held with the and sun bear education centre. Lo (‘SKL0’), Luthfi Mustafah support of National Parks To ensure that the participants (‘The Killer Gerbil’) and Eman Board (NParks) and Nature appreciate the impact of Jeman (‘ClogTwo’) – also Society of Singapore (NSS). Dr Luis, Assistant Director, Avian, releasing a black-naped oriole in Ang conservation issues on the shared the inspirations and Mo Kio Park Town Garden West. This local community, arrangements A researcher measuring the ideas behind their works, The event aimed to raise bird and three others, were rescued by were made for them to interact wing span of a bat during a bat as well as the conservation awareness of the importance a member of the public and brought to population survey, which the Jurong Bird Park. After rehabilitation, and work with the fi sherman in students of ITE College had the messages they hoped to of native birds and how the they were strong enough to fl y free in Balikpapan for half a day. opportunity to observe during convey to visitors. public can help protect them, the wild again. their eco-trip.

44 45 YEARBOOK 2013-14

Stories of the Zoo In-park and Outreach Activities assisted by volunteers : WRS partnered the Singapore • Zoolympix 2013 Centre for Chinese Language • Festival of Biodiversity @ Vivocity to organise the inaugural National Competition for • Panda Party Story Writing at the Zoo. The • Coastal Clean Up launch event featured talks • Children’s Day on creative writing, sharing • Native Birds Taking Flight of anecdotes in the Zoo and guided tours around the park • Istana Open House for the public. The objective • Tattoo the Tortoise is to encourage writers to • Penguin Party fi nd inspiration in Nature and • Year of the Horse Awareness Booth wildlife and feature them prominently in their work. • Pangolin Day This is part of WRS’ strategic Apart from having the opportunity positioning as a “living to engage visitors, volunteers also enjoy close interaction with WRS staff classroom” for promoting the through exclusive events organized to Chinese language. ensure they gain new knowledge and deepen their sense of belonging with the organization. Conservation Education Through Volunteers A total of 1,510 volunteers served at WRS’ parks during the reporting year: The volunteer community continued to strengthen with VOLUNTEER GROUP NO. REMARKS increased numbers of regular volunteers viz. docents and Docents 188 • Adults (21 yrs & above) conservation ambassadors • Two-month training joining the WRS family to • Mainly ranger station activities & guided tours at three Parks. share the wonderment of nature with visitors and spread Conservation Ambassadors 309 • Youth (15 yrs & above) the conservation message. • Two-day training • Serve as guides at various exhibits in three Parks Together, the WRS volunteer Wildlife Buddies 830 • Students (organised school groups led by teachers) community devoted some • One-day training 13,000 hours across four • Serve as guides or station masters for fellow students, parks, helping to project a international students on exchange programme, powerful voice for wildlife. disadvantaged kids, the elderly and physically-challenged. Apart from their regular volunteer duties, many Work Experience Programme 87 • Students, at least 15 years old came forward to assist • Attached to Education, C&R, Zoology, Veterinary, Avian during the numerous in-park and outreach activities to Zoology Volunteers 53 • Candidates of Corrective Work Order. create meaningful wildlife • Collaboration with Ministry for Community Development, experiences for park visitors Youth and Sports as well as members of the public beyond the gates of Vet Volunteers 43 WRS parks. Regular volunteers as well as ad-hoc events volunteers help to enhance visitor experience through interaction and engagement in conservation messaging. Total 1,510

46 47 YEARBOOK 2013-14

DELIVERING GREAT WILDLIFE EXPERIENCES Malayan tigers’ new home

What motivates our staff most is ensuring that our visitors have as satisfying an experience Animal viewing at Night Safari as possible at our attractions. This year, WRS continued to stage memorable occasions and became even more majestic, when wildlife encounters. Engaging experiences enhanced favourite spots in our parks for our the Indo-Malayan Relocation project longtime visitors and forged connections with new audiences. Once again, the dedication and fi nally came to fruition with the excellence of WRS staff was rewarded with signifi cant industry recognition. completion of the new Malayan tiger, Asiatic black bear and thamin exhibit.

Pandas celebrate one year in Singapore The three-year-long project aims to deliver a more impactful end- Giant pandas Kai Kai and of-tram ride experience for guests, Jia Jia continued to delight culminating with an impressive visitors to River Safari view of the Malayan tigers close-up when they marked their behind glass panels in a beautifully The new Indo-Malayan zone at Night Safari offers, among other landscaped temple-ruins setting. experiences, a close-up view of the majestic Malayan tigers. Constant one-year anniversary in rejuvenation of all four WRS parks ensures that visitors will always be Singapore since their arrival treated to refreshing and meaningful wildlife experiences. on 6 September 2012. It was a triple celebration as II and the Duke of Edinburgh in 1972, to Jurong Bird September is also the month Year of the Horse – indeed of their birthdays, with Jia Jia Park for an immersive experience of marvelling at turning fi ve on 3 September birds fl ying freely in one of the world’s largest walk-in and Kai Kai turning six on 14 Singapore Zoo made this year’s aviaries. September. Lunar New Year of the Horse one to remember with a parade of eight Today, the 30m-tall waterfall is still the world’s Visitors enjoyed more falabellas, exquisite miniature horses highest inside an aviary. The walk-in aviary houses a “Pandamonium” festivities originating from Argentina. The dazzling variety of birds, amoung which include the at River Safari, and 10 lucky festive parade allowed visitors to endangered sun conures, the vulnerable common “Panda Party Planners” got admire these unique horses close- crowned pigeons, pied imperial pigeons and to go behind the scenes with up on a walk between Rainforest Von der Decken’s hornbills. panda keepers to prepare a Kidzworld and the festive fl ower- special birthday cake and toy laden Garden With A View. The for Kai Kai and Jia Jia. falabella is known as the fi rst and original miniature horse breed, a true purebred with a unique and historic ancestry that is now highly prized.

Waterfall Aviary relaunched

Waterfall Aviary was relaunched in January 2014 at Jurong Bird Park, The refreshed Aviary is home to the world’s fi rst man-made waterfall and  teams with avian life with more than Mr Desmond Lee Ti-Seng, Minister of State, Ministry of National Amidst the `pandamonium’ festivities, 600 birds from over 50 species. Since Development released some endangered sun conures into the two- visitors get to learn more about the the 1970s, the much-loved spot has hectare Waterfall Aviary, bringing the total number of birds there to more giant panda and conservation issues in than 600. the Yangtze Basin where the white and welcomed visitors including many black bear and many other endangered dignitaries, such as Queen Elizabeth species live – all thanks to the help of many volunteers.

48 49 YEARBOOK 2013-14

More appreciation for WRS

It was another good year aims to catalyse and inspire one better than the year at Jurong Bird Park and Haniman Boniran from Education nominated by industry players for industry and public a transformation in service before by earning three Department were fi nalists for the STB Singapore Experience and experts, with winners recognition for WRS’ work in amongst organisations in major accolades: Night Safari Award, Best Customer Service in Visitor Attraction category. picked by a panel contributing to the quality of Singapore and to produce was again recognised for This year saw 82 fi nalists vying for 27 awards. Finalists were of judges. life in Singapore and to its worthy role models for providing the ‘Best Visitor attractiveness to visitors. all to emulate. GEMS Up Attraction Experience’, A total of 104 staff members Movement is represented making this its 11th honour in were awarded the Excellent Singapore Zoo was the 2013 by fi ve agencies – SPRING this category; Singapore Zoo’s Service Award (EXSA), with Medallion Recipient for Singapore, Singapore Wild Discoverer Tour was a 65 receiving the silver award, Organisations, a pinnacle Tourism Board, Singapore joint winner for Best Travel 28 gold and 11 star. EXSA honour presented to the most Workforce Development Experience; and WRS won the is a national award given by outstanding organisation that Agency, National Trades Most Innovative Marketing the Association of Singapore has demonstrated the highest Union Congress and the Initiative with ‘Pandamonium Attractions and SPRING levels of customer satisfaction Institute of Service Excellence Hits Singapore’. Singapore Singapore to recognise and organisational service at Singapore Management Zoo was a fi nalist for the ‘Best individuals who deliver excellence. University. Visitor Attraction Experience’ quality service in the category. attractions sector. These awards are organised At the Singapore Experience by agencies of the national Awards 2013, hosted and For individual awards, GEMS (Go the Extra Mile for presented by the Singapore Erniewaty Binte Rostam from Service) Up movement and Tourism Board, WRS went Operations Department Erniewaty Bte Rostam and Haniman Boniran from Operations and Education Departments respectively did WRS proud by coming in as fi nalists for the STB Singapore Experience Award, Best Customer Service in Visitor Attraction. 

Singapore Zoo’s Wild Discoverer Tour was the joint winner for Best Travel Experience, STB Singapore Experience Award

50 51 FINANCIAL & ATTENDANCE HIGHLIGHTS

TOTAL REVENUE FY 13/14 $145M

60.7% ADMISSION & RIDES

23.6% F&B

11.6% RETAIL

2.2% OTHERS

1.9% ADOPTIONS & DONATION

TOTAL VISITORS (IN MILLION)

5.0 4.5 4.0 3.5 3.0 2.5 2.0 River Safari

1.5 Jurong Bird Park 1.0 Night Safari 0.5 Singapore Zoo

FY 09/10 FY 10/11 FY 11/12 FY 12/13 FY 13/14

52 53 “Our task must be to free ourselves... by widening our circle of compassion to embrace all living creatures and the whole of nature and its beauty.”

Albert Einstein

54 55 YEARBOOK 2013-2014 WILDLIFE RESERVES SINGAPORE

www.birdpark.com.sg www.nightsafari.com.sg www.riversafari.com.sg www.zoo.com.sg