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A resident bird of Singapore, the White-collared Kingfisher can
often be found flying amidst the mangrove trees. Watch this bird
dive for fish from its favourite perch on mangrove branches along
Sungei Buloh Besar.
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During high tide, these crabs climb out of the water to escape
predation. They form an important component of the ecosystem by
feeding on fallen mangrove leaves that do not decompose easily.
This helps in the breakdown of the mangrove leaves into nutrients
for the mangrove plants.
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The spiders in the reserve are colourful and easily spotted on
their intricately patterned webs.
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Growing up to 2 metres, the Monitor Lizard is the largest lizard found in
Singapore. This creature can often be seen sun-bathing on
the walking routes! Fear not, as when disturbed, it will
clumsily escape into the undergrowth or water. It is an
excellent swimmer, living near water where it scavenges.
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The Mudskipper is an amazing fish of the swamp. Unlike most
fishes, its protruding eyes stick out of the water and enable
it to observe it’s surrounding. It has modified fins that help
propel it out of water and across the mudflats.
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The Mud Lobster makes this mini volcano-like mound of mud. They
are very important member of the mangrove ecosystem. It excavates
below the surface of the mud, pushing mud to the surface and making
its home higher as it digs. In this way it helps to bring nutrients
from deep underground to the surface, helping in the recycling of
nutrients in the ecosystem.
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Barnacles are actually crustaceans, which include members such as
prawns and crabs. Once they find a suitable site, they attach
themselves head-first to the support by secreting a strong protein
cement, forming strong calcareous plates around themselves. They
feed during high tide using their legs like a filtering device,
sieving plankton from the water during hide tide to their mouth.
When the tide recede they retreat to the safety of their shells,
closing the valves to protect themselves from drying out.
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The Common Nerita is a commonly seen throughout the mangroves in
the reserve. It is herbivorous, grazing on algae. During high tide
it can be seen on tree trunks and various structures.
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This rather flat looking bivalve is called the Leaf Oyster. They
usually attached to the roots of the mangrove trees.
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