Story from the field : Citizen Science Approach

 *Heri Tarmizi

Birds selling for consumption image by heri tarmizi

In March 2024, I embarked on a journey to Syiah Kuala village, nestled along the east coast of Banda Aceh, Indonesia. This village, adorned with sprawling mangroves, served as the backdrop for my research on migratory shorebirds. However, my approach to gathering knowledge extended beyond scientific methods; I embraced the wisdom of the local community through what I call the "citizen science" approach.

As I sat with the residents of Syiah Kuala, I listened intently to their stories about the shorebirds that graced their shores. Though they were unfamiliar with the scientific names, their knowledge of these avian visitors ran deep, passed down through generations. They spoke of the birds arriving with the northern sea winds, marking the onset of the local wisdom season known as Oktober. These tales painted a vivid picture of the natural rhythms intertwined with the lives of the villagers.

One elder reminisced about his youth, a time when the skies teemed with flocks of shorebirds. He shared stories of days spent hunting these birds for sustenance, a practice that had sustained their community for generations. However, he lamented the changes he had witnessed over the past two decades. The once-abundant shorebird populations had dwindled, disappearing amidst the transformations of their coastal habitat.

He spoke of a time when some of the shorebirds bore flags and rings on their legs, adorned with Chinese characters. These markers, he explained, were symbols of scientific research and conservation efforts, a testament to the interconnectedness of local knowledge and global conservation initiatives. Yet, despite these efforts, the decline in shorebird populations persisted.

The elder recounted how the mangroves, once thriving ecosystems, had been altered to make way for fish ponds and other developments. The loss of their natural habitat had disrupted the delicate balance of the ecosystem, driving away the shorebirds that once found sanctuary among the mangroves. Now, only small flocks of 10 or 20 individuals remained, a mere shadow of the vibrant gatherings of years past.

In the twilight of his years, the elder shared memories of nights spent setting nets to capture the elusive snipe, locally known as "berkik." The snipe, with its tender meat, was a prized delicacy, sought after by locals and visitors alike. He recalled how the aroma of roasted snipe filled the air, a reminder of the intricate connection between nature and culture.

As I listened to these stories, I realized the profound significance of the citizen science approach. By engaging with local communities and honoring their traditional knowledge, we gain a deeper understanding of the natural world and the challenges it faces. These stories serve as a poignant reminder of the importance of conservation efforts to preserve not only the biodiversity of our planet but also the rich tapestry of human heritage woven into its landscapes.

Chat with local community about migratory birds