Animal sanctuaries aren’t necessarily the first thing that comes to mind in Singapore, the urban jungle makes it impossible for animals to roam freely in vast grasslands. With that said however, there have been animal sanctuaries set up on our sunny island over the years. The increased awareness for animal rights and protection have definitely stirred admirable locals to open their own sanctuaries and share their passion for animals with others. Here are some animal sanctuaries to check out during the summer break:
1. BEE AMAZED Garden
Founded by an educator with the Ministry of Education turned beekeeper, this bee sanctuary boasts educational programmes, honey tasting, environmental talks, and basic beekeeping lessons for visitors to indulge in. A typical visit to the garden would involve learning about the history of beekeeping, an introduction to local bees, and a visit to the beehives observatory. You can even shop for honey on site. Feel like getting a taste before your visit? Check out their online store here.
Location:
Kampung Kampus
91 Lorong Chencharu, Singapore 769201
Nearest train station: Khatib MRT Station
2. The Cat Museum Singapore
The world’s first non profit Cat Museum with live animals has rehomed almost 400 cats since its conception. Founded by Jessica Seet, the museum is split into different segments to engage the cat loving visitor. Welcomed with a gallery of feline artworks, visitors move on to interact with adult cats and kittens who are up for adoption in ‘The Muses’ room. The Cat Museum is also looking for volunteers and donations to assist in the daily running of the place to keep all the kitties safe and comfortable.
Visitors to The Cat Museum are required to book a slot! Tickets are priced at $20.00 per person.
Location:
781A North Bridge Road
#02-0, Singapore 198749
Nearest train station: Bugis MRT Station
3. The Live Turtle and Tortoise Museum
Singapore’s very own turtle and tortoise sanctuary houses a wide range of turtle and tortoise species. Founded by artist and designer Connie Tan and her father, the museum is committed to the health and well-being of every turtle and tortoise. The museum regularly rescues and rehabilitates different species, including the Sulcata Tortoise, the Pig Nose Flying Turtle, and the Soft Shell Turtle.
Tickets to enter the museum are priced from $6.00 to $14.00 and serve primarily to help the museum in operations and upkeep to ensure the quality of life of its animal inhabitants. The museum is always on the lookout for passionate volunteers to assist them in daily operations. Check out more here.
Location:
ORTO
81 Lor Chencharu #01-16
Singapore 769198
Nearest train station: Khatib MRT Station
4. Metta Cats and Dogs Sanctuary
Founded by the late Ms Lee Siew Ying in 1999 and currently run under the capable hands of her son, Terry, the sanctuary is dedicated to providing a safe haven for injured, abused, or abandoned animals. Started with 50 cats, the sanctuary now houses more than 200 rescued cats and dogs. The sanctuary holds regular adoption drives for their furry friends to find loving homes on their Facebook page. The sanctuary is also in need of donations to pay for the upkeep of their facilities, including rent and utilities). Donate here.
5. Mandai Birds Sanctuary
The bird sanctuary, co-founded 20 years ago by property developer Mr Daniel Teo together with his friend Patrick Tay, aims to preserve endangered species. Faced with commercial predation and the encroachment of habitats, the sanctuary is a safe house for 3,000 birds in 8 aviaries, including parrots, macaws, cockatoos, and parakeets.
It was struggling to stay open back in 2016, but has since maintained their presence and is going strong in Western Singapore.
Location:
10 Neo Tiew Lane 2
Singapore 718813
These local sanctuaries are committed to the welfare of their animals and welcome like minded visitors with open arms. Visit them soon this summer!