Birdwatching in Singapore 2024-2025

Densely-populated world's leading business center still has room to host thousands of migratory birds

Best time: September–March

Tiny Pacific Golden Plover overpasses nearly 14,000 km flying from Siberia to welcomingly hot Singapore. Local year-round summer climate with the temperatures rarely descending lower than 25 °C, draws marvellous chirping flying creatures from all over the world.

Birdwatchers will be stunned with the great variety of birds observable across Singapore Natural Parks and Reserves during a migratory season that starts in September and continues to March. The most prominent species include Nordmann's Greenshank, Chinese Egret, Oriental Magpie-Robin, Black-naped Oriole, Oriental Pied Hornbill and many others.

The most prized birdwatching spots include Sungei Buloh Wetland Reserve, Central Catchment Nature Reserve and particularly, a famous TreeTop Walk and Pasir Ris Park known for the Mangrove Boardwalk.

Practical info

When is the peak season for migratory birds to come to Singapore?

The best season to observe migratory bird species in Singapore is from September to March. This period is known as the peak migratory season, as it is when various rare bird species, such as Pacific Golden Plover, Nordmann's Greenshank, and Chinese Egret flock to the country in large numbers. The weather is cooler with lower humidity, which makes birdwatching more comfortable than the summer months. Hence it is the recommended time to visit Singapore for bird lovers.

What are the top birdwatching locations in Singapore?

Sungei Buloh Wetland Reserve, Central Catchment Nature Reserve, and Pasir Ris Park are some of Singapore's top birdwatching locations. In addition to these, visitors can go to Gardens by the Bay, TreeTop Walk in the MacRitchie Reservoir, and Southern Ridges. These locations offer birdwatchers the chance to see a multitude of rare bird species. Visitors can witness some of the rare bird species up close in their natural habitat, making it an unforgettable experience.

Which rare bird species can be seen in Singapore?

Singapore is the home of many unique bird species that can be seen throughout the year, such as the Common Flameback, Little Heron, Blue-tailed Bee-eater, and Dollar Bird. Some migratory bird species come to Singapore only from September to March, such as the Pacific Golden Plover, Nordmann's Greenshank, Chinese Egret, Oriental Magpie-Robin, Black-naped Oriole, and Oriental Pied Hornbill. Travelers interested in witnessing such rare species can visit Singapore's birdwatching locations during the peak migratory season to experience an awe-inspiring birdwatching adventure.

How many months is the bird migratory season in Singapore?

The migratory bird season lasts for seven months in Singapore, from September to March. During this period, various bird species migrate to Singapore from Siberia, the Philippines, and Indonesia. The migratory season is known to be the best time for birdwatchers to visit the country, as it offers excellent opportunities to witness rare bird species. The migratory birds generally stay in Singapore for a few weeks to build up their strength before flying northwards to their destinations.

What are some unique birdwatching spots to visit in Singapore?

Apart from the usual birdwatching spots in Singapore, some unique locations offer an unforgettable birdwatching experience. Visitors can visit the MacRitchie Reservoir, Southern Ridges, and Gardens by the Bay to have a unique view of birds in their natural habitats. The Mangrove Boardwalk in Pasir Ris Park is excellent for observing birds such as Kingfisher, Woodpeckers, and Egrets. These areas have scenic scenery and naturally occurring mangroves and forests, making it the ideal environment for spotting some unique bird species in Singapore.