Singapore’s wildlife parks or zoo are home to some of the world’s most adorable and Instagram-worthy animals. From a penguin with a slick hairdo to a capybara with sass, these creatures capture the hearts of visitors daily.
Here are ten of the cutest animals that will make you go “aww” as soon as you see them—each with a unique personality and charm.
1. Bintang, the Malayan Tapir
Meet Bintang, an endangered Malayan tapir living at the Night Safari. This affectionate four-year-old is known for loving belly rubs and eagerly approaching his keepers for treats.
Bintang, whose name means “star” in Malay, has a sensitive side—he dislikes loud noises like grass being pruned. With poor eyesight, Bintang relies on his excellent sense of smell and hearing to navigate his surroundings.
2. Pierre, the Northern Rockhopper Penguin
If you’re into penguins, you can’t miss Pierre, the northern rockhopper penguin at Bird Paradise’s Penguin Cove. Pierre’s slicked-back hairdo is as stylish as they come, but even handsome penguins have bad hair days.
Senior keeper Benazir Begum shared that Pierre has moments where his crested feathers stick out in all directions. He’s vocal, energetic, and loves showing off his ice and pebbles. Fun fact: Pierre is the only northern rockhopper penguin at the park, so you’ll spot him easily!
3. Moe, the Sassy Capybara
Moe, the capybara from River Wonders, is quite the character. This eight-year-old rodent is a wildlife ambassador who frequently makes appearances in the “Once Upon a River” presentations.
Known for “zoning out” when getting scratches, Moe even stops munching on his favorite food during the experience. He’s also famous for giving people the “side-eye” when he’s not in the mood—talk about attitude!
4. Radin, the Sunda Pangolin
Radin, a Sunda pangolin at the Night Safari, is a shy but lovable ten-year-old. Every morning, he greets his keepers and follows them around his exhibit. Radin’s clumsy gait and gentle nature endear him to everyone he meets.
Once, he fell asleep in his water bowl after displacing all the water—a classic Radin move. Unfortunately, Sunda pangolins are critically endangered due to the illegal wildlife trade for their scales and meat.
5. Miata, the Pygmy Hippo in Singapore Zoo
When it rains, Miata, the three-year-old pygmy hippo at the Singapore Zoo, comes alive! She loves running around her exhibit during downpours, often resembling a glossy fallen tree log from a distance as she relaxes in her moat-turned-mud playground.
Miata belongs to the same endangered species as the famous baby hippo Moo Deng and never fails to dazzle visitors with her playful personality.
6. Susu, the Goodfellow’s Tree Kangaroo
Cuddly and calm, Susu is an 18-month-old Goodfellow’s tree kangaroo who looks like a real-life teddy bear. This endangered creature spends his days perched on high branches in his exhibit at the Singapore Zoo.
His favorite treats? Corn, sweet potato, and tapioca, according to his keeper Linda Gui. With his gentle demeanor and adorable face, Susu wins the hearts of everyone who visits him.
7. Vietnamese Mossy Frog
Beauty is in the eye of the beholder, and the Vietnamese mossy frog is proof. While its spiky, moss-like appearance may deter some, this amphibian has a unique charm.
Found at the Singapore Zoo, these tiny frogs (growing up to 8.9 cm for females and 6 cm for males) are fascinating. When threatened, they roll into a ball and play dead—a relatable defense mechanism!
8. Rote Snake-Necked Turtle
The Rote snake-necked turtle, with its anxious, wide-eyed expression, is one of the rarest reptiles you’ll find at the Singapore Zoo. Known for their long necks (which they can’t retract into their shells), these turtles tuck their heads sideways when feeling threatened.
Recently, the zoo celebrated the successful hatching of the species in July 2023. However, this species remains critically endangered, making them one of the 25 most threatened freshwater turtle species in the world.
9. Great Blue Turaco
With vibrant blue feathers and a striking red and yellow beak, the great blue turaco is one of the prettiest birds you’ll encounter at Bird Paradise. While they’re shy and difficult to spot, their loud, raucous calls often give them away.
Though not adept fliers, these birds are experts at climbing and gliding between trees, making them a sight to behold in their natural habitat.
10. Straw-Headed Bulbul
The straw-headed bulbul is not only adorable but also blessed with a beautiful flute-like call. Found at Bird Paradise, this critically endangered songbird is highly sought after in the songbird trade due to its melodious voice.
Each bird has a unique duet with its mate, which allows keepers to tell them apart. In 2017, Mandai Wildlife Group successfully bred the species in captivity for the first time in over a decade.
Conclusion:
Singapore’s wildlife parks are home to a delightful array of adorable and rare creatures, each with its own quirks and charm. Whether you’re captivated by the clumsy Sunda pangolin or the stylish rockhopper penguin, these ten cuties will definitely steal your heart.
Make sure to visit Singapore Zoo, River Wonders, Night Safari, and Bird Paradise to meet them in person!
