A fixture in school excursions for older Singaporeans, the iconic Jurong Bird Park, home to more than 5,000 birds across 400 species will be relocated to the Mandai nature precinct just before the park turns 50. Yesterday, the Mandai Safari Park Holdings (MSPH) announced its plans to build an integrated nature and wildlife destination in Mandai, including the relocation of the Jurong Bird Park to the new 17ha site by 2020. Earlier, when there were whispers of a possible relocation, Mr Bernard Harrison, former CEO of Wildlife Reserves Singapore, had said the move would be extravagant and unnecessary. The Jurong Bird Park was built at a cost of S$3.5 million more than four decades ago, excluding the price of the land. Mr Mike Barclay, MSPH’s group CEO, pointed out yesterday that the existing infrastructure at the park was less than ideal. It will take about three months for the birds to be moved to the new park in Mandai. Jurong Bird Park will not close until they have fully moved their collection of birds, said Mr Barclay.... Continue Reading