After doing some research on the nesting habits of Little Terns, I learned that their nests are usually just a shallow scrape in sand or shingle, and they can be found on the coasts or inland waterways. In many countries, they are protected because their numbers have dwindled due to habitat loss. Unfortunately, their choice of nesting locations are usually places where human traffic is high, and it is not unusual for a breeding pair to abandon their nest due to disturbances.
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| Kallang Riverside Park, view from Sir Arthur's Bridge. |
With this information, I decided to check out the small stretch of beach at the Kallang Riverside Park, accessed from Kampong Bugis. There was not a single Little Tern to be spotted today at Kallang River from around 11am to 12:30pm. Instead, a Grey Heron and immature Brahminy Kite were spotted, perched on the coconut tree branches. Little Herons were also spotted along the riverbank. I reached the usual place where I photographed the Little Terns, and there was not a single one there too. Where have they gone to? Further inland? Have they started nesting and chosen a site which is further inland?
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| Sea Grape fruits. |
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| Sea Grape leaf. The leaf is so stiff and thick that it can be used as a plate! |
Later in the afternoon, around 3pm, a single Little Tern was spotted diving for fish at the sea near the beach at Fort Road exit. It flew in the direction of Marina Barrage. I do not think it went back to Kallang River because it is quite far away, and the bird appeared again later around 4pm to fish. Maybe a breeding pair can be found at the under-construction Marina East beach.
