Bye-Bye, Bird Park! The Avian Adventure Continues
Hold onto your feathers, folks—our cherished Jurong Bird Park is taking a final bow on January 3, 2023. After a whopping half‑century of wing‑flapping wonder, the old nest will close its doors. But fear not! All of our beloved bird buddies are headed for a fresh, fabulous home.
New Home: Mandai’s Mega‑Nest
Picture this: a sprawling sanctuary right alongside the Singapore Zoo, Night Safari, and River Wonders. That’s where the flock flies now. The destination, officially christened Bird Paradise, promises to be a rooftop oasis for some of the richest collections of threatened species under human care.
Why It Matters
- Conservation Powerhouse: Hosting a sizable assembly of endangered birds, it’ll become a critical hub for species preservation.
- Eco‑Friendly Fun: Visitors will enjoy lush, sustainable habitats that mimic the wild.
- Bird‑Friendly Design: Enhanced spaces mean happier, healthier flocks.
What to Expect
Expect the same soaring excitement—only now, the aviaries are updated with state‑of‑the‑art enrichment, companions, and the chance for up close encounters. Whether you’re a bird enthusiast or just in for a leisurely stroll, the Bird Paradise will be a miniature world of feathered delight.
Final Takeaway
So, whether you’re taking a final stroll through the old park or planning a fresh adventure at Mandai’s new haven, remember: the joy lives on, and the tunes of our feathered friends will keep echoing in the skies. Nothing really changed, just the venue—and now, the experience has scaled new heights!
The Aussie‑Aerial Adventure
On January 3, 1971, a giant feathered playground opened its wings on the island, earning the title of Asia’s biggest bird park at the time. Think of a sky‑filled zoo with over 5,000 feathered friends spanning 400 species—just imagine the flapping chaos.
Throwback Tour: “Nostalgic Signature”
- It’s a throw‑back tour that takes you back to the golden days of the park.
- Seasoned guides will regale you with juicy stories from the past—perfect for folks who remember the park from childhood.
- Picture those who grew up and now bring their own kids to learn why the park mattered for so many generations.
What’s Happening Now?
- A self‑guided Heritage Trail lets visitors roam, humming to themselves about the park’s history.
- The antique Panorail Station is reopening, letting passengers once again glide over the wildlife haven.
- Special activities and events are set to entice both bird lovers and curious tourists alike.
All rolled into one joyous celebration, the park is breathing new life while paying tribute to the days long past. Come and experience the feathered nostalgia—a must for trivia buffs, adventure seekers, and anyone who appreciates a good story.
Remembering the Feathered Paradise of Jurong Bird Park
When the Panorail was Still Rolling
Back in the ’90s, my family used to pop into Jurong Bird Park for epic school trips. We’d soak in the dazzling bird shows and ride the Panorail – that awesome steel rail that whisked us right up to the legendary waterfall (yes, it shut down in 2012).
Capturing Childhood in Sepia
Dad’s trusty old Panasonic camera froze our adventures in sepia‑tinted photo albums. Even as a six‑year‑old, I felt like I’d stumbled into a little Shangri‑La for feathered friends – and I’ve been nostalgic for those moments ever since.
Why the Relocation Feels Extra Sorrowful
Now that the park is moving, folks who’ve lived and breathed the avian scene for decades get even more sentimental.
- Long‑time Staff – They’ve watched the park transform over the years, and you can hear their stories echo with humor and a touch of sadness.
- What They’ll Miss Most – The original river vista, the familiar aisles of the Panorail, and the bustling buzz of the old lucky fence.
- Moments Of Reflection – Every bird call they’ve rehearsed, every souvenir they’ve donated, and every “school trip” story they’ve told.
Wrap‑Up: A Heart‑Touching Farewell
It’s not just a change in scenery; it’s a heartfelt rewrite of a cherished childhood album. Even as we sync the past with the future, the park’s director promises that tomorrow’s visitors will still find the same wonder – just in a brand new frame.
Mohammad Saad Bin Yahya, 60
Meet the Assistant Manager of Animal Presentation
At Jurong Bird Park’s High Flyers Show, the Assistant Manager of Animal Presentation has been a key player for 39 years. That’s more than a decade of feathers, flight, and fun!
What’s Their Day-to-Day?
- Curates the bird‐show storyline—think drama, dance, and daring flips.
- Coordinates training sessions so each bird performs perfect tricks.
- Maintains tight schedules, ensuring every flap and twirl lands exactly when the audience expects.
- Gives a quick encore to keep the excitement alive.
Why They’re a Star
With nearly four decades under their belt, this manager knows every wingbeat and dove‑silent moment. They’ve turned an ordinary bird show into a soaring spectacle that keeps families raving.
What will you miss the most about the current location?
Seeing the World Shift—From Pockets of Nature to Rows of HDB
Back in 1983, when I first rolled into work, you could honestly say that the only housing around looked like it had been carved straight out of the rocks. No HDB flats dotted the skyline, just a handful of blocks where the locals called each other friends after sunrise.
The Big Picture from the Waterfall
Standing on the falls, I could spot the whole of Jurong in one glance. Hills, rivers, and a few scatter‑shot buildings—picture a postcard that was still a memory instead of a code. I’d laugh at how my daring “one‑step jump” would have to be stopped by somewhere called Pelican Cove today.
What’s Filling Up? Taking a Quick Doodle
- Did you know that every turn now shows an endless line of HDB flat towers? Picture a staircase to nowhere—stair by stair, they’re growing.
- Only a handful of older trees still flick when the wind blows. Absolutely no before‑season refresh.
- And that “home” just a routine forced to look at the “eyes” of the Street 5.
How We Miss the Good Ol’ Days
There’s a vibe that we’re losing, something‐pretty‑simple—nature. A morning walk there used to let the sun’s rays dance across the trees, and it felt like you were walking inside a living, seeing the green.
Will It Still Be the Same Once We Move?
Honestly, we’re not going to see the same bland slice of jungle. I feel like we’re staring at a painted canvas now, full of cars, cement, and people roaming the new neighbourhood. Unsure where the simpler moments end, but we have to welcome the new scenery that is watching us from a different perspective.
What are some of the most memorable moments in your career so far?
How We Turned the Black Hornbill into a Century‑Old Marvel
Picture this: it’s 1992 and our team has just managed to raise the world’s first Black Hornbill under human care. Yes, the same bird that people used to think could only survive in the wild got our full attention and ended up thriving in the sanctuary.
Timeline of the Butterfly‑ish (well, hornbill‑ish) Birdways
- 1990 – Opening day of the Black Hornbill exhibit. I was one of the rookie keepers assigned to bring these magnificent creatures home to their first ever “guest room.”
- Later that year, the zoo’s bird roster was a bit of a jumble. Every species was funneled into a single big area, and every keeper got a bit of everything.
- We realized that would work like washing a sink full of socks. So we redid the layout: birds got their own sections, and each keeper became an expert on a particular species.
- That’s how I ended up with a full‑time job in the Hornbill section—my daily grind turned into a real passion for those feathered giants.
Why It Matters
When you’ve spent a decade watching Black Hornbills, you learn that they’re not just birds; they’re nature’s own little “bold apparel” with swagger and grace. And every feathered friend has a story that deserves a spotlight.
A Tiny Word of Gratitude
Thanks to the team’s shenanigans and our willingness to list out every feather’s quirks, we’ve turned the Black Hornbill exhibit from a simple display into a living, breathing headline act. It’s worlds unknotting, baby!
Do you have a favourite feathered-friend moment?
Back at the Hornbill Chit Chat
Back in the 1990s, we used to hop from school to school with our feathered friends in tow, chatting about the Hornbill and the other wonders of Singapore’s sky. It was our way of sharing how the birds thrive right here in our little island.
The Surprise Moment
Fast forward to today: most kids (and even some parents) are almost totally clueless about the local birdlife. That’s why the first time I swapped a Pied Hornbill into a classroom, the room erupted with a collective “Wow!” and a neat slice of “Did you know Singapore’s got its own amazing species?” in their ears.
Why We’re Doing This
- Build a Love for Local Wildlife — Kids need to feel a connection with birds that sit on their rooftop, not just the ones in documentaries.
- Encourage Everyday Observation — Spotting a feathered creature in your backyard can become a family pastime.
- Ridicule the “Where Are the Birds?” Myth — Singapore is full of avian charm, and it deserves to be taught in schools.
- Plant Humour and Curiosity — A great question is “What’s your favourite bird?” and the answer always turns into an engaging conversation.
Join Us!
Every time we fly a hornbill into a classroom, we’re not just handing over a bird. We’re handing over a story, a lesson, and a hopeful spark that the next generation will look up and say, “Yes, this is ours!”
Clarence Saw, 59
Meet the Bird‑Whisperer Behind the Curtain
When you walk into Jurong Bird Park and hear the roar of a falcon or the gentle tap of peacock feathers, you’re experiencing the handiwork of one remarkable man: the Senior Manager of Animal Presentation for the Kings of the Skies Show.
34 Years of Sky‑High Experience
That’s a career that could fill a whole book—edge‑to‑edge, feather‑to‑feather. He’s been there since the park opened, turning a simple animal display into a soaring spectacle that keeps kids and adults alike in awe.
What Makes Him Stand Out
- In‑depth knowledge: From the smallest hummingbird to the biggest eagle, he’s memorized every species’ quirks and behaviours.
- Creative flair: He scripts each performance as if it were a blockbuster movie—spectacular plots, breathtaking climax, and a touch of heartfelt charm.
- Hands‑on training: He teaches the birds to dance, to sing, and occasionally to hold a tiny flag in a friendly salute.
- Safety first: 34 years of experience also mean he knows how to keep the animals and the audience safe—no accidental feather‑flings!
A Day in the Life
Morning: Draft the day’s routine while sipping a hot cocoa.
Midday: Work out choreography with the feathered talents.
Evening: Take a bow for a rapturous ovation—feathers clapping in the background.
A Touch of Humor
He once joked, “If you ever feel a little bird‑like, remember: it’s the best medicine.” The crowd chuckled, and the show began—extra sparkle, and the audience left with a smile that lasts longer than a twinkle in a kite‑flyer’s eye.
Legacy & Legacy‑Love
His 34‑year journey isn’t just a career; it’s a flying love story. He’s turning live‑action and love for nature into a legacy that will inspire future ambassadors of the air.
What are some of your career highlights so far?
My Pride in Working with Birds of Prey
There’s something truly awesome about being able to hang out with killer hawks, soaring falcons, and majestic eagles. It’s not your day‑to‑day nine‑to‑five grind—no, it’s a wild, feathered adventure that feels both thrilling and oddly therapeutic.
Why It’s a Game‑Changer
- Uncommon: Most people never get the chance to train or even watch a raptor up close.
- Badass Bond: There’s a mutual respect that feels almost like a secret handshake.
- Learning Curve: These birds teach you patience, timing, and how to read obvious cues before they even look at you.
- Nature’s Finale: Watching a bird take flight and glide off the horizon is like watching a sunset, but with a lot more whoosh.
What Makes It So Satisfying
When a raptor lands on your arm or pecks gently at the tip of your hand, it’s a moment of pure trust. You’ve earned that silent nod and, in turn, you get an unforgettable experience that’s both educational and heartwarming.
A Quick Word on the “As We Love” Factor
Turning the challenge of avian training into a joy zone isn’t just about the birds. It’s also about you gaining confidence, cracking those self‑doubts, and realizing you can handle whatever life throws your way—just like you handle those wings.
So if I asked anyone else to write about a normal office job, they might grin and say, “What’s there to brag about?” But I’ll keep flexing my raptor‑taming muscle, because once you’ve worked with these majestic creatures, you’ve got a story that’s hard to shake.
What will you miss the most about the current location?
My Most Cherished Daily Ritual
Every morning, before I hit the ground, I’m already indulging in one of my absolute favorite moments. Picture this: I stroll down the path that leads to my workplace, and somewhere along the way, I meet my feathered little therapists. I greet each of them with a cheerful “Hey there!” – because a simple hello turns out to be a powerful mood‑boosting elixir.
It’s More Than Just a Trek
- Linked to the Place – The real magic lies not in the walk, but in the place itself. The birds stay with me, moving in unison with our daily routines.
- Future Proofing – Even when we relocate to a new bird park, those feathered friends will follow. The continuity is the real joy.
A Second Home, An Eternal Anticipation
In essence, this location has become my second home. It’s the one spot I look forward to every single day, where the air is fresh, the birds are chirping, and my heart feels full of warmth.
Do you have a favourite feathered friend?
Why My Condor George Became the Lone Star of the Avian Squad
Working with birds is a wild ride—no pun intended. In most jobs, you’re not allowed to stick with just one bird because, let’s face it, they think you’re trying to start a feathered fan club. But I’ve got a twist in the tale.
Our Job: A Feather‑Forgettable Life
- Continuous rotation: one bird today, another tomorrow.
- Teams don’t get the luxury of petting a single creature for a month.
- Everyone’s part of a larger team—human and avian.
Meet George: My Avian BFF (Gone but Never Forgotten)
He was George the Andean Condor, a majestic winged gentleman who left us too soon.
I was the lucky one who got to train him, and he practically became a personal pet—yes, a pet that could fly.
George had the innate sensitivity of a high-maintenance diva:
- He’d only wing your hand if you were the right match.
- Every touch mattered—someone who handled him had to be gentle, like you’d whisper a secret to honey.
The Team Dilemma
Because of George’s selective affection, the rest of the squad ran into a minor crisis:
- He’d get a little rattled when strangers entered the training arena.
- Team morale dipped when the usual “paperwork” day turned into a “do not touch” day.
- We had to schedule extra “bonding” sessions—lots of feather twirling and some serious emotional counseling.
In short, George was a condor celebrity with a very exclusive fan club—myself. While we loved him, we couldn’t get the rest of the team to feel the same way, and that’s just part of life in the bird world.
Wah seh, we hear you were an ex-military man before starting at Jurong Bird Park! Tell us about it.
From Boots to Bikers: A Six-Year Soldier Story
I spent six years in the armed forces, doing what most of us would call the police job – but with a twist. I was a military policeman, also known in the field as a Provost.
Getting Started, and Getting Gripped
After finishing the Basic Military Training, I was sent straight into the Military Police after completing the course. At first, I was picked to serve as a provost instructor – it’s like being a trainer for other officers on how to keep the peace.
Rotations Through the Ranks
- Two years in the Provost School taught me that discipline is the secret sauce to survival.
- Next, I hopped onto a motorcycle platoon for another two years. Nothing like feeling the wind and the roar of the engine while staying on the edge of the law.
- The last part of my career lined up at the Istana: guarding the palace, performing the classic changing of the guards ceremony, and marching down Orchard Road all the way to the Istana. Talk about a scenic route!
What It Really Means to Be a Provost
Being a military policeman means you’re constantly on your toes—often literally. You learn to respect rules, maintain resolve, and keep a calm vibe no matter how chaotic the situation. You also pick up some pretty slick anxiety-management skills, which some folks might call tolerance for the job.
All in all, my six-year stint was a whirlwind of learning, road-mash, and an opportunity to keep the peace in the best way I could: with a uniform, a sense of humor, and a steady heartbeat.
Chandra Mohan, 43
Meet the Goose‑Whisperer: Manager of the Kings of the Skies Show
“Walking the Bird Floor” – that’s the unofficial nickname that friends give him, because he can diffuse a squawk‑fueled showdown faster than a zipline can quit a VR session. The man behind the eyelash‑fluffy line-ups at Jurong Bird Park has been on the wing for 22 years, turning animal presentations from routine spectacles into unforgettable park‑parade moments.
What Does He Do?
- Destroys boredom one chirp at a time.
- Decodes the secret handshake between flamingos and lizards.
- Ensures every “snake worry” is addressed before the audience.
- Orchestrates the Kings of the Skies Show—where every bird gets its moment of glory.
Why The “Kings of the Skies”?
Picture a dragon‑like flock taking hold of the stage, flapping in sync, and performing a dash of acrobatics that would make even the most seasoned concert pianist drop his violin in awe. That’s our Kings of the Skies—no stone averted from being fluffed or flaked, and no feather left trembling. All of this happens under his watchful eye, where a gentle word can calm a cranky eagle or rouse a restless parrot.
A Day in the Life
Morning: coffee—because a manager cannot fly blind. Mid‑morning: quick check of the cage doors, ensure none forget their “I’m not a crocodile!” on back. Afternoon: brief coaching sessions; a quick nail‑polish to make well‑behaved birds as sparkling as a diamond in the sky. Evening: the final rehearsal—timing, lighting, wind track trivia. Night: review of the latest newsletter, because good managers need monthly bragging rights.
Trivia & Humour
- He once mistook a chicken for a tourist, offering it a free paschal blessing.
- He’s so good at reading avian emotions you’ll often hear him murmuring “we’re all in a feather‑between‑adam” before the show.
- When asked about his favorite bird, he often cites “the bird that never sneezes.”
So if you’re heading to Jurong Bird Park—expect the skies to be a bit more regal and the birds a bit more gleeful, all thanks to our 22‑year‑old manager who never misses a beat. The next time you see a majestic eagle peeking forward to “star” the show, give him a nod. He’ll know who’s coming. And if you’re lucky, you might also catch him checking that smirk— the secret key that keeps the whole flock in a diplomatic place. Happy watching!
What are you most proud of in your career so far?
Celebrating a Milestone in Customer Service
Back in 2012, I had the honor of earning the Singapore Experience Award—a badge of gold for being the standout provider of customer service that year.
How It All Unfolded
- Rigorous Interviews: The selection process was no walk in the park. Think of it as a tough obstacle course, where each question was a hurdle I had to jump over.
- Steady Perseverance: Despite the pressure, I pushed through—think marathon runner, but with a customer’s smile as my trophy.
- Victory Moment: When the award was finally handed over, I felt a rush of triumph and gratitude. A true testament to hard work paying off.
Why It Matters
Winning such a prestigious award wasn’t just about the trophy. It highlighted that genuine commitment to customer satisfaction can truly shine, even in a competitive landscape.
Takeaway
Every challenge faced along the way reinforced that perseverance and a dash of humor can pave the road to success. Here’s to many more bright moments ahead!
What will you miss the most about the current location?
Throwback to the Good Ol’ Picnic Ground Days
I’ve gotta admit—playing football every weekend with the whole department crew was one of my absolute favorite ways to spend a Sunday. We had the biggest, most epic picnic patch right there, and for years we’d laugh, sweat, and crush on that field. But the ground? Gone. And honestly, that’s the one memory I’ll miss the most.
Growing Up Around the Field
- Been there since I could walk – I started showing up in little sneakers whenever I could.
- Family vibes – My uncle worked the place. He was the mastermind behind the whole “show” scene.
- Inspiration station – Watching him slide on the field, talk to crowds, and make it all feel effortless lit a spark in me.
Birds, Shows, and a Dash of Fandom
When I was a kid, I’d watch my uncle as he orchestrated the shows, talking to the kids, feeding the pigeons, and just owning the stage. That was what got me hooked on the whole bird‑buddy gig. A simple splash of giggle‑filled chirping and the way he could turn a routine into a performance—that was where my passion began.
Looking Ahead
Sure, the old picnic ground’s memories are priceless, but hey, I’m also pretty excited about the brand‑new spot up ahead. Because, let’s face it, fresh turf means fresh chances to keep kicking off those wins.
Do you have a favourite feathered friend?
Finding Freedom from Attachment
Let’s be real—I used to cling to a single feathered friend like it was my own personal superhero. That was Salmah, the Golden Eagle who stole my heart and, unfortunately, the sky seemed a little emptier when she slipped from the world.
The Real Life Lesson
- Respect — I still honour every bird, but I learned not to tie myself to just one.
- Equality — I treat the whole avian squad as a pack, because every winged buddy matters.
- Growth — I let the feathered world keep expanding my horizons.
My New “Bff” of the Skies
Instead of a singular favorite, I now groove with a whole crew—but if you press for one, it’s the vultures.
Why Vultures Rule the Roost
- They’re the ultimate cleanup crew—nature’s refuse men, turning gobble‑down into green again.
- They keep the ecosystem healthy by getting rid of the dead—no pest parties.
- There’s a quiet nobility in their flight; they’re the undertakers of the sky.
- They’ve got a cool chill factor—no one’s chasing them, they just do their business and move on.
So here I am, enjoying the wide‑open sky—no attachment now, just the thrill of watching the great, majestic vultures take to the air. It’s a win for me and the planet!
Vultures: The Unsung Heroes of the Skies
People often picture vultures as grim, death‑driven scavengers, but that’s just half the story. In fact, these birds are some of the cleanest and most pretty creatures you’ll ever see!
Meet the Feathered Cleaners
- Bearded Vulture (Lammergeier) – Think of a feathered “beard” that adds a splash of color to the desert skies.
- Other Species – From the swanky white‑belied Black Vulture to the charismatic Andean Condor, each species brings its own style.
Why Cleanliness Matters
When an animal body is left to rot, it can become a festival for disease‑spreading microbes. That’s where our winged doctors step in:
- They devour carcasses in record time.
- By doing so, they halt disease spread before it reaches wildlife or even humans.
- This keeps the ecosystem healthy and prevents nasty outbreaks like rabies.
Think of Vultures as Nature’s Ambulance
Picture wild dogs sniffing around a carcass. If the vultures are slow, those dogs eat the meat, carry the disease, and waltz into towns. Quick-action vultures? They swoop in, digest the body, and leave the environment safe.
Final Takeaway
Next time you spot a vulture circling overhead, give those birds a nod. They’re not just scavengers; they’re essential, beautiful, and downright heroic. So let’s rewrite the myth: Vultures aren’t “ugly”; they’re nature’s clean‑up crew, delivering a healthier world one punch of a wing at a time.
You might not have been a military man like your colleague Clarence, but you joined Jurong Bird Park straight out of national service. How was NS for you, and did it inspire or prepare you in any way?
From Gunboats to Birds: A Military‑inspired Life at the Park
Back in 1998, I was on my BMT in the 21 SA artillery company. Think of a group of disciplined guys firing shells with all the confidence of a drone team—you can almost hear the “bang!” in the air. After that, I swapped artillery fire for driving duties at Sungei Gedong Camp. The transition was as dramatic as moving from a hard‑core shooter to a highways‑hero.
First Day at Work
By 2000 I had already ORD‑ed (enlisted) and pulled in for a formal interview. Coincidentally, my uncle’s staff had desked me—talk about showing your colors at the right time! The cops of discipline walked straight into my new workplace, and I could feel the military ethos tightening the grip around my work ethic. Just like a gun crew, our entire crew had to be sharp as a sniper’s laser.
Discipline—It’s the Pantry of the Wild Side
- We’re not just working with our workmates who have now rented the role of family. These guys have scoured their lives out of sniffing1 live birds. If you lack discipline, you might as well be “no‑fly” for us, because we’re leaning on the “shoot‑again‑not‑to‑take‑away” principle of the NS training;
- We feed them, care for them and’re constantly…
We are taking care of the “live birds” in the sense that the birds are the heart, the rice bowl for us, and you can’t take them for granted. Those relationships built over years’s of shared experiences turned into little feathered or handful of living families. We’re on the watch when it comes to wild, free range, and this human and animal crew on our beloved peninsula.
Offline: Live‑Bird Challenges
Remember that messing with a bird of prey is like a whole new universe. They are wily, powerful—so you have little trick to handle them properly. They have
- We handle them safely, with love, love; we keep them healthy as a mental state;
- The same work ethic that we use at the other side of the battlefield is how the industry forms the system of shared practices;
- We make sure we have teamwork in our life path for handling them.
Finally, the NS taught us moral values like respect and diligent practice. We tackle intensity when we carry an excited, amazed point and you gained a manual full of knowledge in making the discipline training habit for careful conflict with the bird situation.
