#6 Otter
Away from the forest
and into the rivers,
Singapore is firmly in
the grip of otter fever.
Smooth-coated otters
made a welcome return to
our shores in 1998, and in response to cleaner
waterways, around 60 otters from about 10
separate families now share our island. They
occupy fixed areas when they have pups, living
in that area for several months before moving on.
Altercations with other families over territory can
be violent.Safari tips: For a relatively easy bit of otter
spotting, jump on a bike and cycle around Gardens
by the Bay or even near Boat Quay. Otters are most
active before 8.30am. Observe from a distance and
keep dogs on a short leash. For regular updates on
otter locations, check facebook.com/OtterWatch.#7 Crocodile
Less cute and far scarier, the saltwater crocodile
inhabits the wetlands of the northern coastline.Here, Singapore’s largest carnivore quietly hunts
for fish and small animals by night. Crocodiles
have even been found lurking in the Singapore
and Kallang Rivers.Safari tips: At Sungei Buloh Wetland Reserve there
are often two crocodiles just over the bridge from
the visitor centre, most often basking by the water.
Keep a very respectful distance; they’re potentially
dangerous.#8 Sea turtle
At the opposite end of Singapore, around the
Southern Islands, two species of endangered sea
turtles are found. The hawksbill turtle and the
larger green turtle are most commonly sighted
around the Sisters Islands Marine Park. Turtles
even nest on these islands occasionally.Safari tips: Scuba divers can join a trip with a
National Parks-approved dive operator in the
Sisters Islands Marine Park. For non-divers, keep
your eyes trained on the water next time you’re
on a boat – you may just see the round head of a
turtle as it pops up to breathe.234 CITY GUIDE 2018
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