I COULD not help but smile when I read last Friday's article ("Civets on Ubin get GPS collars").
It is testament to the variety of wildlife that can be found within and around our modern metropolis, be it on Pulau Ubin or in Siglap where I live. In fact, I practically share my home with a civet that stealthily traverses my roof almost every day.
Seen in the early hours of dawn or at the first shimmer of nightfall, it is a thing of beauty with its distinct markings and long upright tail.
I have been fortunate enough to catch a glimpse of it every so often, without having to step into a forested area, and appreciate how conducive the environment in Singapore has become for these animals.
Many species of birds and butterflies also visit my small garden every day, adding to the colour and sounds in my estate.
Many Singaporeans do not see the beauty of nature around them, with some even complaining about bird calls. They should take time out from their busy schedules to sample nature, which has thrived quite well in our garden city.
In my case, having a brother who is a wildlife consultant has helped me realise how important biodiversity is to our tiny island. This is why any development has to be carefully planned.
Just think of the Bukit Timah Nature Reserve. It may not be the Amazon but it is something we can be proud of.
Manoraj Rajathurai
It is testament to the variety of wildlife that can be found within and around our modern metropolis, be it on Pulau Ubin or in Siglap where I live. In fact, I practically share my home with a civet that stealthily traverses my roof almost every day.
Seen in the early hours of dawn or at the first shimmer of nightfall, it is a thing of beauty with its distinct markings and long upright tail.
I have been fortunate enough to catch a glimpse of it every so often, without having to step into a forested area, and appreciate how conducive the environment in Singapore has become for these animals.
Many species of birds and butterflies also visit my small garden every day, adding to the colour and sounds in my estate.
Many Singaporeans do not see the beauty of nature around them, with some even complaining about bird calls. They should take time out from their busy schedules to sample nature, which has thrived quite well in our garden city.
In my case, having a brother who is a wildlife consultant has helped me realise how important biodiversity is to our tiny island. This is why any development has to be carefully planned.
Just think of the Bukit Timah Nature Reserve. It may not be the Amazon but it is something we can be proud of.
Manoraj Rajathurai
