The world’s largest free-flying aviary is the Jurong Bird Park in Singapore. Spanning 20.2 hectares (over 49 acres), it is home to over 5,000 birds representing 400 species. The park opened in 1971 and has since welcomed over 20 million visitors.
Where is the Jurong Bird Park located?
The Jurong Bird Park is located in the western region of Singapore, within the Boon Lay planning area. The address is 2 Jurong Hill, Singapore 628925. The park is accessible by both private transport and public transportation.
Jurong Bird Park is situated near the Jurong Lake Gardens and Chinese Garden. Other major attractions located close by include the Singapore Science Centre, Snow City, and Kidz Amaze.
What is the size of Jurong Bird Park?
Jurong Bird Park covers an expansive 20.2 hectares or 49.4 acres of land. To put its massive size into perspective:
- It is about 3 times the size of the Singapore Zoo (28 acres).
- It is over 5 times the size of the Night Safari (35 acres).
- It is approximately the size of 40 soccer fields.
Within this space, Jurong Bird Park contains multiple aviaries and habitats tailored to different species of birds. The park also features several educational exhibits, restaurants, gardens, lakes, and walking trails.
What is inside Jurong Bird Park?
Jurong Bird Park is home to a diverse collection of over 5,000 birds from 400 different species. Some of the major exhibits and aviaries include:
- World of Darkness: A large walk-in aviary recreating a South American rainforest environment for nocturnal birds.
- Lory Loft: The world’s largest lory flight aviary, with a towering waterfall facade.
- Penguin Coast: Features an enclosure for African penguins to walk freely.
- Pelican Cove: Showcases pelicans and other wetland birds in their natural habitats.
- Flamingo Lake: A lake where flamingos can be seen feeding and wading through water.
- Waterfall Aviary: A 30-metre high waterfall aviary housing 600 free-flying birds.
Aside from the aviaries, Jurong Bird Park has shows and educational exhibits like the High Flyers Show at Pools Amphitheatre. There are also two restaurants within the park – Hawker Centre and Birdz of Play.
What is the history of Jurong Bird Park?
Jurong Bird Park was conceptualized and built by the Jurong Town Corporation, opening to the public on January 3, 1971. Some key milestones and facts:
- Jurong Bird Park was part of the government’s plan to develop Jurong into an industrial estate in the 1960s.
- It was designed and constructed by consultant firm Marshall of Cambridge.
- The park was built at a cost of S$3.5 million.
- Jurong Bird Park started with just 400 birds from 60 species.
- It previously included a Bird Paradise Show featuring parrots on roller skates.
In the 1990s, Jurong Bird Park underwent enhancement and upgrading works to keep the park relevant. In 2002, Wildlife Reserves Singapore took over the management of Jurong Bird Park.
What awards and accolades does Jurong Bird Park have?
Jurong Bird Park has received numerous awards and accolades for its conservation efforts and high standards, including:
- ASEAN Tourism Association Hall of Fame Award (1995)
- Singapore Tourism Board Best Wildlife Attraction Experience Award (2005, 2006, 2008)
- TripAdvisor Certificate of Excellence (2011-2016)
- Singapore Tourism Awards Best Attraction Experience Winner (2012-2013)
- TripZilla Excellence Awards Best Attraction Experience Winner (2017-2020)
The park’s achievements demonstrate its continuous commitment to providing world-class avian exhibits and visitor experiences.
What conservation efforts does Jurong Bird Park participate in?
Jurong Bird Park places strong emphasis on avian conservation. Some initiatives include:
- Breeding programs: The park has successfully bred threatened species like the Bali mynah, penguin, toucan, and hornbill.
- Research: Jurong Bird Park’s veterinarians and aviculturists regularly conduct avian research to improve captive breeding.
- Public education: Conservation messaging is integrated into the park’s exhibits and shows.
- Partnerships: Collaborating with wildlife groups like the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN).
- Financial support: Donating funds to in-situ conservation projects worldwide.
Through these efforts, Jurong Bird Park helps protect endangered bird species, contributes valuable research, and raises public awareness on avian conservation issues.
What future plans are there for Jurong Bird Park?
Jurong Bird Park will be moving to a new site next to the Chinese Garden in 2023. The new bird park will cover 9.6 hectares and showcase birds in immersed natural habitats.
Some features of the new Jurong Bird Park include:
- Larger enclosed aviaries with improved landscaping.
- More walk-through habitats and raised boardwalks.
- A one hectare outdoor Bird Discovery Zone.
- New interactive exhibits and attractions.
With the move, Jurong Bird Park aims to enhance both visitor experience and bird welfare. Exciting new exhibits can be expected when the new park opens its doors.
Conclusion
In summary, Jurong Bird Park stands out as the world’s largest free-flight walk-in aviary due to its massive size, extensive collection of avian species, immersive landscaping, and dedication to conservation. It is a showcase of Singapore’s wildlife and ecological commitment. The upcoming new park will build upon decades of experience to provide an even better habitat for its avian residents.
