NOT all those who wander are lost—some are migratory birds. While we often wish for luck in finding the cheapest airfare to travel to another place, migratory birds never have to look for the best airline deals.
They do not have passports to get stamped, and they do not need to go through the scrutiny of immigration officers.
They are like budget travelers as they do not need to stay in fancy hotels. They are a bit luckier than backpackers, though, as they do not need to stay in cramped dormitories or sleep at the airport. They have their own areas for resting in the areas they visit.
Interestingly, there are also designated areas for their breeding, feeding and wintering. Without doubt, migratory birds make a perfect attraction for ecotourism. But these birds have a crucial role that many of us often fail to appreciate. Migratory birds play a pivotal role in maintaining the ecosystem balance. They do this as they travel from one place to another.
Instead of bringing heavy luggage with them, these birds bring pollen and seeds to each area that they visit, clearly spelling their role in biodiversity conservation.
Making it bird-friendly
This year’s World Migratory Bird Day (WMBD) focuses on the need to make energy technologies sustainable and harmless to migratory birds.
With the theme “Energy—Make it Bird-Friendly!” this year’s WMBD celebration highlights “the importance of deploying energy technologies in a way that prevents, minimizes and mitigates impacts on migratory birds and their habitats.”
WMBD is held every second weekend of May, and for this 2015, the dates set are May 9 and 10.
Millions of migratory birds around the world are affected directly and indirectly by unsustainable use of energy. For instance, some energy infrastructure displaces or kills birds through electrocution or collision with power lines.
Habitat loss is another issue related to energy use that migratory birds have to face. This is said to be brought about by the deployment of various energy technologies that include bio energy, hydro power, solar and wind, among others.
While renewable-energy sources are generally considered well for the environment, these should come with efficient and proper design and planning. Risk assessment is an important aspect that should come before an energy technology is put into use.
When migratory birds are threatened the ecosystem balance ends up threatened, as well. Putting them at risk also means losing opportunities, particularly in ecotourism that can provide economic opportunities to the locals.
Acting collectively
Southeast Asia is quite popular when it comes to “hosting” migratory birds. Malaysia, Singapore and the Philippines are among the top countries where tourists flock to catch a glimpse of these birds.
While the Southeast Asian region is an important area for migratory birds, it is also a threatened area for many species of shorebirds, such as the critically endangered Spoon-billed Sandpiper. According to the Philippine government’s Department of Environment and Natural Resources, the Candaba Swamp in Pampanga province has “117 important birds areas covering 32,202 square kilometers that act as refuge for as many as 115 globally threatened species of water birds,” reflecting the wide array of bird species that can be sighted in the country.
Singapore’s Sungei Buloh Nature Park, which is a major route for migratory birds, is now reportedly threatened by pollution and sedimentation. These, coupled with unsustainable energy technologies, pose serious threats to migratory birds.
Migratory birds know no boundaries, and they often do not have a defined itinerary. Thus, efforts of one country are not enough; these should be done collectively and with neighbors in the Southeast Asia region.
Asean Center for Biodiversity (ACB) Executive Director Roberto Oliva said ACB is committed to support the protection of migratory birds. He noted that the Southeast Asian region is known to be a haven for migratory birds that continue to lure millions of tourists, particularly birdwatchers.
“This privilege of hosting migratory birds comes with a great responsibility of upholding conservation measures. In this context, hospitality means initiating efforts that will promote their well-being,” Oliva added.
By Karen Lapitan | Special to the BusinessMirror
Image credits: ACB photo