Nature photographers who are expecting birds, otters, or monitor lizards are now also able to spot crocodiles in Singapore. Well, you don’t have to visit the zoo or a safari to see these crocodiles. In recent years, there is a growing number of crocodile sightings in Singapore. Wander around the wetland reserve or nature park and you will
Wander around the wetland reserve or nature park and you might just find yourself up close and personal with these reptiles. For some of you, you may know that crocodile sightings in Singapore are common at Sungei Buloh Wetland Reserve. However, do you know that they are spotted in the Northern and Eastern part of Singapore too?
Whether you are a reptile fanatic or an adventure seeker, the park, reserves and reservoirs are where crocodile sightings in Singapore are common. You may want to keep a close eye on family and friends if you’ll be around the area, as these are the spots where crocs roam free.
1. Sungei Buloh Wetland Reserve
Sungei Buloh Wetland Reserve is a great place to walk around. You get to escape the hustle and bustle of Singapore city. Walk along its boardwalk and if you are lucky, you may be able to spot a Saltwater crocodile. Also known as the Estuarine crocodile, these crocs are also usually found lying across the main footpath, soaking up the sun or lying under the waters.
Free guided walks at the reserve are available on selected Saturdays. Check out the details on the Sungei Buloh Wetland Reserve website.
2. Kranji Reservoir
Enjoy the panoramic view of Johor Straits at Kranji Reservoir Park. There are as many as ten saltwater crocodiles living in the north-west coast of Singapore, as reported in the Straits Times in June 2013.
In recent years, a 400kg, 3.6m-long saltwater crocodile – one of the largest to have roamed wild here – was found dead on the Kranji Reservoir grounds.
3. Tampines/Pasir Ris River Canal
Several years ago, an angler fishing at Pasir Ris Park snared an unexpected catch of a one-metre-long crocodile. Some of these reptiles have been seen in a mangrove swamp near Tampines/Pasir Ris River Canal. They are likely visitors from Malaysia! The reptiles are known to swim freely in the Straits of Johor.
4. Woodlands Waterfront Park
Recently, an angler fishing at the jetty snared a crocodile which had bitten on his fish hook.
“The fishing rod was suddenly yanked by a huge force. On closer look, I realised it was a crocodile about 3m long that was caught,” Suhairi told the newspaper reporter.
These reptiles feed and rest in mangroves and freshwater bodies along Singapore’s North coast. Crocodiles and sharks have also been sighted lurking in the sea off Woodlands Waterfront Park.
The “no swimming” notices along these stretches do not warn about sharks or crocodiles. However, the park’s jetty and promenade are fenced off from the waters of Strait of Johor with railings. Despite this, children are often seen sourcing for crabs on the marshland bordering the sea.
Whatever it is, when visiting nature reserves, always keep within designated land trails and footpaths. Don’t venture too near the water’s edge, you never know what could be lurking. Also, keep a close eye on family and friends!
(Header image by The Straits Times)
Also, read Kranji Marshes Opens With Free Guided Walks To Restricted Areas, Perfect For Nature Lovers!
