The Role of Aceh as a Key Flyway for Raptor Migration: A Study of Oriental Honey Buzzards and Chinese Sparrowhawks

*Heri Tarmizi

Raptor migratory soaring  source Bantumi 

Aceh, Indonesia, serves as a vital flyway for raptor migration, particularly for species such as the Oriental Honey Buzzard and Chinese Sparrowhawk. This thesis explores the migratory patterns of these raptors in Aceh, with a focus on spring migration in April 2020. Observation data from Kajhu Aceh Besar and Banda Aceh Tibang reveal significant numbers of raptors passing through the region. 

Additionally, the thesis examines the interconnectedness between the Aceh and Thailand Gulf flyways, based on satellite tracking studies of Chinese Sparrowhawks. The study underscores the importance of further research to enhance understanding of raptor migration dynamics in the Aceh and Thailand Gulf regions.

Introduction: 

Raptors, including birds of prey such as the Oriental Honey Buzzard and Chinese Sparrowhawk, undertake extensive migratory journeys each year. Aceh, located in northern Sumatra, Indonesia, plays a crucial role as a flyway for these raptors during their migration periods. 

This thesis aims to investigate the migratory patterns of Oriental Honey Buzzards and Chinese Sparrowhawks in Aceh, particularly focusing on observations made during the spring migration of April 2020. Furthermore, the study explores the connection between the Aceh and Thailand Gulf flyways, based on satellite tracking data of Chinese Sparrowhawks.

Analysis of Raptor Migration in Aceh: 

Observations conducted in April 2020 at Kajhu Aceh Besar and Banda Aceh Tibang revealed significant numbers of raptors migrating through the region. Specifically, 15 individuals of Oriental Honey Buzzards and 25 individuals of Chinese Sparrowhawks were recorded in Kajhu Aceh Besar, while 10 Japanese Sparrowhawks and Chinese Sparrowhawks were sighted in Banda Aceh Tibang. 

Japanese Sparrowhawk with an Argos PTT (credit A. J. Pierce)

These observations highlight the importance of Aceh as a crucial stopover site for raptors during their migration.

Interconnectedness of Flyways: 

The satellite tracking study of Chinese Sparrowhawks provides valuable insights into the interconnectedness between the Aceh and Thailand Gulf flyways. Four Chinese Sparrowhawks tagged with solar-powered Argos PTTs during their southward migration through southern Thailand revealed their subsequent migration patterns. The tracking data indicate that these raptors traversed both the Aceh and Thailand Gulf regions, suggesting a connection between the two flyways. This finding underscores the need for further research to elucidate the extent of this connectivity and its implications for raptor conservation.

Image source ARGOS 

Implications and Recommendations: 

Understanding the migratory patterns of raptors in Aceh and their connectivity with neighboring flyways is crucial for effective conservation efforts. Conservation initiatives should focus on protecting key stopover sites and habitats along migratory routes to ensure the survival of raptor populations. Furthermore, collaborative research efforts between Indonesia and Thailand are essential to gather more data on raptor migration in the Aceh and Thailand Gulf regions, thereby informing conservation strategies and policies.

Conclusion: 

Aceh serves as a critical flyway for raptor migration, with significant numbers of Oriental Honey Buzzards and Chinese Sparrowhawks passing through the region during spring migration. The interconnectedness between the Aceh and Thailand Gulf flyways, as evidenced by satellite tracking studies, highlights the need for collaborative research and conservation efforts to safeguard raptor populations in these regions.

Reference:

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