May 11, 02:29 PM 
514 Chai Chee Lane 03-16, Singapore 469029 A lot has been said about Singapore’s pioneer generation -- the legendary generation of immigrants that left their homes, took risks, worked hard and helped built Singapore from scratch.
But with SG50 celebrations coming up, you've probably heard enough about them by now.
So let's take a short break from the discussion about Singapore's pioneer generation.
Here are eight animal immigrants that came to Singapore with the same level of determination and hunger for success.
1. Changeable lizard
The animal: The Changeable lizard or the Oriental Garden Lizard (Calotes versicolor) is a notorious invasive species that can change its color to dark brown when threatened. Erroneously known to Singaporeans as the ‘chameleon.’
Where it’s from: Thailand and Northern Malaysia.
How it got here: Believed to be an accidental immigrant arriving with vehicles and ships from up North.
Why it’s a survivor: The Changeable lizard is more territorial, more aggressive than its native counterpart, the tree-hugging Green Crested Lizard (Bronchocela cristatella), which can also turn dark brown under duress.
Lessons natives can learn: If you’ve the same skills as your competitors, strive to be a little more aggressive and adaptable for that extra edge.
Because being a pacifist in today’s working environment simply isn’t going to cut it.
2. Red Eared Terrapin
The animal: The ubiquitous Red-eared Terrapin that is sold at pet shops for a mere $3 - $5.
Where it’s from: Southern USA and Northern Mexico.
How it got here: The pet trade, fuelled by the popularity of TMNT, brought these critters in the hundreds and thousands to Singapore. It’s the only reptile that can be kept (legally) as a pet in Singapore.
Why it’s a survivor: While it’s not proven that the red-eared terrapin has bred in Singapore, the creatures can lay up to 25 eggs per batch. In comparison, native species like the Malayan Box Turtle can only lay 1-6 eggs each time.
Looks like the 'Stop At Two' policy had some spillover effect.
Lessons natives can learn: A low-birth rate is a no brainer for extinction. No wonder the Government has been harping on those baby bonuses.
3. American Bullfrog
The animal: The American Bullfrog. A badass MOFO from the United States and Canada that literally eats other frogs for breakfast. We’re serious.
Where it’s from: The name speaks for itself.
How it got here: Where do you think the frog legs in porridge come from? This is the same critter that is sold at wet markets (and aquarium shops as a feeder for around 50 cents per frog).
Why it’s a survivor: Aside from being bigger and meaner, the American Bullfrog excels at life because of its voracious appetite. It eats everything from fish, insects, reptiles, birds and other amphibians. Don't believe us? Watch this video.
Lessons natives can learn: Sometimes, it pays not be too picky. Not just with your diet, but with you know, jobs, relationships and other opportunities.
4. Javan Mynah
The animal: Hands down the most common bird in Singapore. If you haven’t seen one, you must have lived under a rock all your life.
Where it’s from: Java. No shit, Sherlock.
How it got here: Introduced via cage bird trade. Established itself in 1925.
Why it’s a survivor: Check this out: according to the Straits Times, the Javan Mynah wakes up way before other birds to feast on roadkill. You could say that the early bird gets the... um.. maggots?
Lessons natives can learn: I guess they weren’t lying when they said starting your day early was good for productivity. No more late night clubbing and pubbing daily then.
5. Norway Rat
The animal: One that honestly needs no introduction. Ninjas of the night that raid dustbins.
Where it’s from: Believed to have originated from Northern China. However, these days, whether its Bangkok or Calgary, rats can be found all over the world.
How it got here: Brown rats live everywhere where humans do. Seeing that air travel was largely unavailable till the later part of the 20th century, it is likely rats came along with our forefathers and former colonial masters via ship.
Why it’s a survivor: It's hard pressed to find someone that likes rats. But no matter what you think about them, it doesn't change the fact that rats are true survivors. As the Bukit Batok Rat Massacre of 2014 demonstrated, you can never seem to fully eradicate them. One thing is for sure, rats will be with us for a very, very long time.
Lessons natives can learn: Sometimes, the price of success is hated by many.
6. House Crow
The animal: A black bird with a black beak with an attitude to boot.
Where it’s from: South Asia.
How it got here: Brought here during WW2 to kill another pest – caterpillars (wow, whoever thought that was a good idea?), the House Crow decided to colonize Singapore instead. They've been here ever since.
Why it's a survivor: Aside from being ridiculously adaptable and intelligent, crows are the mob bosses of the bird world. Piss one off and prepared to be attacked en masse. Some people in Hougang found out first hand not too long ago. And in case you’ve been harrased before, don’t feel bad - even mighty birds of prey aren’t spared.
Lessons natives can learn: Be adaptable - You don’t always end up doing what you’ve been hired for. And that with enough numbers, you can triumph over the most formidable of opponents.
7. Common Tilapia
The animal: A grey, nondescript fish that looks at home both in the longkang and on your plate. But mostly in the longkang.
Where it’s from: South Africa.
How it got here: Another species brought here during WW2, the Tilapia was Introduced by the Japanese during World War 2 for food. Unfortunately, nobody liked its taste. Maybe that’s why they’ve thrived.
Why it’s a survivor: In addition to living in large groups, the Common Tilapia are excellent parents. The dads build a nest and guard it till the eggs are ready. The moms store eggs in their mouths until the young are ready to hatch (it’s called mouthbrooding).
Lessons natives can learn: Want your kids to be successful? Then sometimes you gotta raise them yourself and give them plenty of attention. Enough said.
8. Rock Dove – commonly known as ‘Pigeon’
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The animal: The bird that’s so common, it will most definitely poop on you at some point of your life. Don’t say we didn’t warn you.
Where it’s from:. Europe, North Africa, Western Asia.
How it got here: It is likely that the Rock Pigeons in Singapore originated from escaped birds intended to be sold for food.
Why it's a survivor: Despite hundreds of them being hit by MRT trains every year, the pigeon continues to thrive in Singapore. Never mind that they’re among the most oblivious creatures and you’re always tempted to kick them when they get in your way.
But guess what? Pigeons are hailed as one of the most intelligent bird species out there. Smarter than owls (which are in fact quite stupid, if you do some research).
In 1982, three pigeons were able to recognise all 26 letters of the English alphabet. They can even recognize two different individuals in a photograph. Talk about surprising.
Lessons natives can learn: Your BMT bunkmate was right. Sometimes it’s smart to ‘act blur to live longer.’
Disclaimer: The author is not responsible for any injury, death, or hurt arising out of emulating any of the animals listed here. Readers are strongly advised to exercise discretion in doing so. Do note that all species here are non-native to Singapore and their presence in the wild should not be condoned.
Top photo via
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