Introduction
World Migratory Bird Day (WMBD) is celebrated twice a year, on May 11 and October 15, to raise awareness about the conservation of migratory birds and their habitats. This year, the theme is "Protect Insects, Protect Birds," emphasizing the crucial role insects play in the survival of bird species. The Aceh Birds Club (ABC) organized a series of events in Ujong Pancu, Aceh Besar, Indonesia, to mark the occasion. Aceh, located at the western tip of the Indonesian archipelago, plays a significant role in the East Asian-Australasian Flyway (EAAF), serving as a critical wintering and stopover site for various migratory birds.
Aceh: A Key Location in the EAAF
Aceh’s strategic position, bordered by the Indian Ocean and the Malacca Strait, makes it a vital region for migratory birds. Each year, numerous species, including shorebirds, raptors, and terrestrial birds, utilize the Aceh landscape during their migrations. The spring migration period peaks in May, particularly for raptors, while in other parts of Indonesia like Java, Bali, and Borneo, the spring migration has already ended.
Activities and Observations
The WMBD event in Aceh began with a gathering of bird enthusiasts and conservationists at Ujong Pancu. The agenda included bird observations, discussions on migratory patterns, and a cleanup activity to enhance the natural habitat. The event attracted a diverse group of participants, all eager to contribute to bird conservation efforts.
Bird Observation Expedition
The primary activity was a bird observation hike, starting from the coast and moving inland. The participants were equipped with binoculars, cameras, and field guides to aid in identifying various bird species. The coastal areas of Aceh provide an excellent habitat for shorebirds. During the observation, the team spotted several species, including curlews and plovers. These shorebirds are known for their long migrations and depend on coastal ecosystems for feeding and resting.
As the group moved inland, they observed terrestrial birds. Among the notable sightings was the Asian Koel (Eudynamys scolopaceus), known for its distinctive calls. The koel is a brood parasite, laying its eggs in the nests of other bird species, primarily the House Crow (Corvus splendens).
The highlight of the observation was the sighting of various raptor species. Raptors are birds of prey, and their migration patterns are of particular interest to ornithologists. The group spotted the Chinese Goshawk (Accipiter soloensis), the Oriental Honey Buzzard (Pernis ptilorhynchus), and the Shikra (Accipiter badius). These sightings were significant, as they provided valuable data on the migratory routes and timing of these raptors.
Challenges and Conservation Efforts
The bird observation activity also highlighted some challenges faced by migratory birds. Habitat loss, pollution, and climate change are significant threats to these species. The theme "Protect Insects, Protect Birds" underscores the interdependence of species within ecosystems. Insects are a primary food source for many bird species, and their decline can have cascading effects on bird populations.
To address these challenges, the Aceh Birds Club advocates for habitat conservation, pollution control, and sustainable land-use practices. Public awareness and community involvement are crucial in these efforts. The WMBD event served as an excellent platform to educate participants about the importance of conserving bird habitats and the broader ecosystem.
Trail Cleanup Activity
At the conclusion of the bird observation hike, participants engaged in a trail cleanup activity. The group collected plastic waste and other litter along the trail, emphasizing the importance of maintaining clean and healthy habitats for wildlife. This activity not only improved the environment but also reinforced the message of environmental stewardship among the participants.
Conclusion
The World Migratory Bird Day celebration in Aceh, organized by the Aceh Birds Club, was a resounding success. The event highlighted the importance of Aceh as a critical site for migratory birds within the EAAF. Through bird observation, discussions, and cleanup activities, participants gained a deeper understanding of the challenges faced by migratory birds and the actions needed to protect them.
The theme "Protect Insects, Protect Birds" was particularly relevant, drawing attention to the intricate connections within ecosystems. The decline of insect populations poses a significant threat to birds, emphasizing the need for holistic conservation approaches. The Aceh Birds Club’s efforts in organizing this event demonstrate the power of community engagement in conservation.
Bibliography
1. BirdLife International. (2021). "Migratory Birds and Flyways." Retrieved from https://www.birdlife.org/
2. East Asian-Australasian Flyway Partnership. (2021). "East Asian-Australasian Flyway." Retrieved from https://eaaflyway.net/
3. National Audubon Society. (2021). "World Migratory Bird Day." Retrieved from
4. ASEAN Centre for Biodiversity. (2021). "Migratory Birds in Southeast Asia." Retrieved from https://aseanbiodiversity.org/
5. World Migratory Bird Day. (2021). "Protect Insects, Protect Birds." Retrieved from https://www.worldmigratorybirdday.org/
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