Rakhine State launches bird shelter initiative to prevent species extinction

Chairman U Yan Naung Soe of the Rakhine Biodiversity and Nature Conservation Association expressed the start of bird shelters in Yanbye and Manaung townships, Rakhine State, to protect against the extinction of bird species and roam naturally by raising awareness.
Bird species that live in these areas are gradually disappearing due to the deforestation and depletion of mangroves. There are more than 100 species of birds in Rakhine State and several larger-sized species are at risk of extinction, according to Rakhine Biodiversity and Nature Conservation Association.
“The number of birds has decreased significantly. We are always monitoring and making lists. The crafting and hanging of the bird shelter campaign is starting to protect the birds in Manaung and Yanbye townships from the fourth week of September,” said U Yan Naung Soe.
A total of 120 bird shelters were hung on the Kyaung Mountain and Tanphokha Hill near Laytaung township in March and 400 bird shelters have been hung in Yanbye township. The bird shelters were crafted in various designs from wood and bamboo at the value of K5,000 per shelter.
The proliferation of bird species is directly linked to the ecosystem and it is necessary not only to do forest conservation but also to do bird species conservation measures, according to environmentalists. — ASH/MKKS