Berlayar Creek

24042023 -This was one of my shortest intertidal trip ever, as I squeeze in a short jaunt in just before heading to work. As soon as we arrived at Berlayar Creek, there was a patch of clouds started hoovering over us. I'm not sure if it's me being a rain magnet again or just sheer coincidence. It started to drizzle and we were presented with a magnificent rainbow. What a sight! One of nature's miracle that fails to make me go "wow!"

Although today's trip was filled sightings of many common animals that I usually see, it's still definitely good to know that at least they are still around and have not disappeared. Embedded itself well among the rocks was this Giant top shell snail.

Along the way I spotted many orange-striped hermit crab, they occupied shells of different sizes.

Finally, when the sun was all out, a common hairy crab started making its way out of its hideout to the open. Probably to have a tan!

On the upper shores where it was slightly rockier, there were a few different species of snails, namely :lightning dove snail, rock periwinkle snail and chunky drill.

Fan clams

Among the rock embankments, there were limpets spotted firmly attached to the rocks. They were well camouflaged against the facade of the rock and you could only really see them if you are close enough.

Other than that, I spotted rock oyster as well.

There were many sand dollars scattered around the shoreline and how I wished they were indeed real money to be used. I would have strike rich if that would be the case.

On the upper shore, Kok Sheng found these cryptic sea star which is not often seen. It is listed as "Vulnerable" on the Red List of threatened animals of Singapore.

The acorn worm was seen early in the morning doing its business. It comes out in a form of a cast which is passed out by the worm. To be frank, I have not gotten to see the whole worm yet. Hopefully one day I will get to see the entire worm.

As tide receeds further, finally the whole field of tape seagrass became exposed. On a closer look there were female flowers on it too. Was looking closely for other animals but just had no luck.

A few patches of carpet anemone that were spotted along the way. Again, as with every trip, we are glad to note when anemones are not showing signs of bleaching at least.

giant carpet anemone

As I was rushing for time, I did not managed to take many underwater shots of corals as most of them were much further out in deeper waters. I need to wait for tide to recede further and time was not my friend that day.

It was a blessing, Kok Sheng spotted a seahorse drifting like a piece of debris on the waters. We brought it in to shallow waters and took some photos for record and released soon after. I do hope I will be able to see more the next trip.

Ribbed venus clam

Another interesting find of the day was the naked moon snail. It was rather huge in size, it overgrew its own shell till it was unable to retract into its shell. Imagine that!