World Travel 4 Indians

Jurong Bird Park, Singapore claims to contain the world's largest and most impressive aviaries, covering an area of 50 acres. It is home to 7000 birds of 600 species, displayed in huge enclosures. A ride on the Panorail for a panoramic view of the Park and into a tropical world of jungle mists at the Waterfall Aviary is really spectacular.

The bird shows at the Pools Amphitheatre featuring flamingoes, macaws, hornbills and cockatoos are both spectacular and funny, and suggested particularly for children. The Penguin Parade enclosure, in a re-created Antarctic setting, houses more than 200 penguins of five species. Within the Penguin Parade enclosure, there are some 50 other sea-birds such as the Inca terns and puffins. Another highlight is the colorful Hornbills and Toucans exhibit, the world's largest collection of Southeast Asian Hornbills.

The Southeast Asian Birds Aviary houses in its 24 individual aviaries and a main walk-in aviary, more than 100 species of birds from the equatorial jungles of Southeast Asia. The birds' natural equatorial habitat is re-created within this exhibit, including replicated tropical thunderstorms everyday at noon. Another walk-in aviary not to be missed is the Waterfall Aviary, home to more than 1,500 free-flying African birds.

The Bird Park has recently added a natural freshwater river habitat featuring over 20 species of ducks, fishes and turtles.

The best way to start a tour of the Bird Park is to board the modern, air-conditioned panorail system. Its route covers the entire Park, providing excellent elevated views of the various exhibits.