A mushroom completely new to science was discovered at the Singapore Botanic Gardens in 2014 and its discovery documented in the journal Mycologia last month. Singapore also recently opened its first turtle hatchery at the Sisters' Islands Marine Park, in response to more sightings of rare sea turtles and more nests being recorded on its shores. It is heartening that in this densely-built urban environment, there still are pockets of unspoiled nature with the promise of natural history discoveries to be made, and where wildlife can still thrive. Singapore has prided herself on being a clean and green city, but that image has often been associated with a manicured, man-made landscape rather than a raw, untamed wilderness.

While this island can no longer be called wild, there are patches which can be, and have been protected even as the country strives to find more room for urban development. The Sungei Buloh Wetland Reserve, which celebrates its 25th anniversary this year, is one shining example of a conservation milestone achieved through civic and government partnership. Conservation efforts such as these help preserve Singapore's natural history heritage for future generations.