Bidadari Park
Bidadari Park: Where Nature, History, and Birds Plot Their Takeover
Nestled in the heart of Singapore, Bidadari Park is a lush green haven that proves nature and urban planning can, in fact, get along. This 13-hectare wonderland boasts scenic trails, a picturesque lake, and an impressive number of birds who seem to be running the place.
A Little History, Because Context Matters
Before it became the serene escape it is today, Bidadari was home to one of Singapore’s largest cemeteries. But don’t worry—any lingering ghosts have long since traded in their haunted mansions for high-rise flats. The name ‘Bidadari’ itself means ‘fairy’ or ‘angel’ in Malay, which is fitting, considering the park now feels like an enchanted retreat amidst the city’s hustle.
Birds, Birds, and More Birds
Bidadari Park serves as a vital rest stop for migratory birds traveling along the East Asia-Australasian Flyway. Its lush greenery serves up the finest bird buffets and cozy layover spots where these feathered travellers can refuel and recharge. From September to March each year, visitors have the chance to observe rare bird species—no binoculars required (but highly recommended for the full avian experience).
Meet some of the feathered VIPs who have made a guest appearance at the park!
Ruddy Kingfisher (Halcyon coromanda)
Tiger Shrike (Lanius tigrinus)
Eyebrowed Thrush (Turdus obscurus)
Mugimaki Flycatcher (Ficedula mugimaki)
Amur Paradise Flycatcher (Terpsiphone incei)
Hodgson’s Hawk-Cuckoo (Hierococcyx nisicolor)
Collared Scops Owl (Otus lettia)
Black Baza (Aviceda leuphotes)
What to Do (Besides Admiring Birds)
Bidadari Park isn’t just for the bird enthusiasts—it’s also a great spot for jogging, strolling, or just sitting on a bench pondering your life choices while watching butterflies perform their mid-air dance.
The children’s playground takes “playing with nature” to a whole new level—literally! With giant bird nest lookalikes and swooping slides, kids can channel their inner fledglings, climbing, perching, and swooshing down like excited little hatchlings learning to fly (minus the risk of a crash landing).
The park’s star attraction, Alkaff Lake, is a peaceful oasis perfect for leisurely strolls and quiet reflection. Alkaff Lake boasts state-of-the-art drainage features to manage stormwater and reduce flash floods during heavy rains.
The grassland and wetland ecosystem around the lake hosts a variety of bird species that add a splash of colour and life to the landscape. The usual suspects? The Yellow-bellied Prinia (Prinia flaviventris), always showing off its bright personality…
…and the Scaly-breasted Munia (Lonchura punctulata), with its fashionable, patterned look.
One morning, a family of Scaly-breasted Munias was spotted at Alkaff Lake, scarfing down algae like a tasty serving of chendol jelly! Here’s a tiny tidbit: These little feathered foodies sometimes snack on algae—particularly filamentous algae like Spirogyra—to pack in some extra protein, giving them the energy boost they need, especially before the busy breeding season.
We’ve even got a surprise visitor—the Little Grebe (Tachybaptus ruficollis)—at Alkaff Lake one day, gracing the water with its graceful glides. A rare sight in Singapore, this elusive bird doesn’t make frequent appearances, so its surprise visit was a real treat for birdwatchers lucky enough to catch a glimpse.
A famous non-avian celebrity of Bidadari Park is the Finlayson’s Squirrel (Callosciurus finlaysonii)! Originally from Thailand, these little furballs were introduced to Singapore in the 1990s, possibly through the exotic pet trade, and have since become quite the local stars. With their distinct bicoloured coat—cream-colored head and underparts, contrasted with brown—they’re basically the woodland version of a fashion statement. Aren’t they just the cutest?
This Finlayson’s Squirrel was spotted in the Bidadari woodland one day, ravenously feasting on the flowers of the Blue Jacaranda like it hadn’t seen a meal in days. What a greedy little rascal—didn’t even leave a nibble for the next squirrel!