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Mapping Singapore's Avian Life: Inside the Singapore Bird Observation Map
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Mapping Singapore's Avian Life: Inside the Singapore Bird Observation Map

An interative map of Singapore Birds in the past 23 years.

Web App
Next.js
Cloudflare
Amplify
15 May, 2025

Overview

The Singapore Bird Observation Map is a web-based interactive tool designed to help users explore the rich avian diversity of Singapore. Built on real-time data from the eBird API, this app allows you to discover where and when specific bird species have been observed across the island. Whether you're a casual birdwatcher, a researcher, or just curious about local wildlife, this map provides an engaging way to visualize bird activity in Singapore.

Users can filter observations by date range and species, switch between a point map and a heatmap, and zoom in on precise locations for detailed insight. All sightings are mapped using coordinates provided by eBird checklists, with the data updated daily via automated backend processes.


Features

  • 🌏 Singapore-wide Heatmap: See a density map of bird observations across Singapore.
  • 📅 Date Range Filters: Select a specific time window to view seasonal activity patterns.
  • 🐦 Species Filter: Explore sightings of individual species.
  • 📍 Point Observations: Click on individual observations to view location details.
  • 🔁 Daily Updates: Fresh data synced from eBird every night at 11:50 PM.

Tech Stack

Frontend

Backend & Data

  • Supabase for PostgreSQL database and API access
  • Scheduled data syncing with GitHub Actions (cron jobs)
  • eBird API as the primary data source

There is no dedicated server — all logic runs serverlessly using frontend fetches and GitHub Actions.


Data Sources

  • eBird API:

    • Provides historical bird observation data for Singapore
    • Powers species and checklist metadata
  • Supabase:

    • Stores observation data with relational references (e.g., species, location)
    • Enables fast querying and filtering by date and species

Closing Thoughts

Singapore is home to a vibrant array of bird species, both resident and migratory. This map makes it easier than ever to track their presence and movements across the island. Whether you're spotting a hornbill in Changi or a plover in Sungei Buloh, the Singapore Bird Observation Map helps you connect data to the land — and learn a little more about the feathered lives around you.

Made with 🐦 & ❤️ for Singapore's birding community.

Gallery

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