In commemoration of Earth Day 2021, on 25th of April, Cicada Tree Eco-Place brought participants on a guided walk along the Rail Corridor. It was a first time for some of our participants to witness a significant remnant of Singapore’s history while others were curious what biodiversity could be uncovered there.
We were thankful for lovely weather after days of rain before. Traversing the stretch between Hindhede bridge and Hillview bridge, we were accompanied by the flutey calls of the critically endangered Straw-headed Bulbul (Pycnonotus zeylanicus) and fruit trees such as the pea eggplant and starfruit. As the sun came out, so did the butterflies and dragonflies. It was joy seeing the Common Bluebottle butterfly (Graphium sarpedon) licking salts off the ground to supplement its diet. We also got to witness numerous male Common Parasol dragonflies (Neurothemis fluctuans) fighting for territory along a stream.
Along the way we made a short detour to witness the scenic view of the Singapore Quarry. There, we were welcomed by the presence of the Banded Woodpecker (Chrysophlegma miniaceum), an uncommon resident bird, as well as the Greater Racket-tailed Drongo (Dicrurus paradiseus), a smart bird known for mimicking other bird calls.
It was an enjoyable walk that brought Singapore’s biodiversity and history closer to us. We encourage you to start exploring the nature spaces around you too!