Singapore is a city, but its parks and reserves are full of wildlife - from otter families in the waterways to crocodiles in the mangroves. Here is what you might see, where to look and how to watch responsibly.
Otters
Two species live here. Smooth-coated otters are found in main waterways and nature reserves - including Sungei Buloh Wetland Reserve, Singapore Botanic Gardens and Bishan-Ang Mo Kio Park - as well as mangroves and coasts. Asian small-clawed otters have a more limited range on Pulau Ubin and Pulau Tekong.
Watch from a distance, keep pets on a short leash, speak quietly and avoid flash photography. Never touch, chase or corner otters, especially when pups are present.
Long-tailed macaques
You will often see long-tailed macaques near forest edges. They are not aggressive if left alone, but they recognise food and plastic bags. Keep these out of sight, avoid direct eye contact and back away slowly if one approaches. Feeding them draws them out of the forest and is against the law.
Birds
Herons, egrets, kingfishers and sunbirds are seen all year. From August to April, migratory shorebirds such as whimbrels, common greenshanks and Pacific golden plovers stop at Sungei Buloh. In the rainforest at Bukit Timah, look for the greater racket-tailed drongo and its long tail feathers.
Reptiles
Malayan water monitors are common in wetlands and parks and will ignore you if you ignore them. Estuarine crocodiles live at Sungei Buloh: stay on the paths and boardwalks there.
Forest mammals
The Malayan colugo - a gliding mammal - rests on tree trunks in Bukit Timah and the Central Catchment forests during the day. Look for a well-camouflaged shape pressed flat against the bark.
How to watch wildlife responsibly
- Keep your distance and let animals move away.
- Never feed wildlife - it is prohibited under the Wildlife Act.
- Stay on trails and keep noise down.
- Call the Animal Response Centre on 1800 476 1600 if you see an injured or trapped animal.
Coming next
- Otters and where to see them
- Birdwatching basics
- Macaque etiquette
FAQs
Where can I see otters in Singapore?
Smooth-coated otters live in waterways and reserves such as Sungei Buloh Wetland Reserve, Singapore Botanic Gardens and Bishan-Ang Mo Kio Park.
When is the best time for birdwatching?
August to April, when migratory shorebirds visit Sungei Buloh. Early mornings are best.
Are monkeys dangerous?
Not if you leave them alone. Keep food and plastic bags out of sight, avoid eye contact and never feed them.
Related guides
Sources
- NParks AVS: Otters in Singapore (checked 9 November 2026)
- NParks AVS: Macaques in Singapore (checked 9 November 2026)
- NParks: Sungei Buloh Wetland Reserve (checked 9 November 2026)
- NParks: Bukit Timah Nature Reserve (checked 9 November 2026)