Activities Report 1999 Nov Newsletter
"Ten Eco-tourism Sites Where Migratory Birds Stop
Identified"
The Malaysian Nature Society (MNS) lauds the Wildlife
and National Parks Department in identifying 10 potential sites where migratory
birds stop, for purposes of eco-tourism. Eco-tourism planned and practised
responsibly contributes positively to nature conservation.
However, the list should not be limited to
migratory birds and their habitats alone, and should also include other
bird areas that are no less important. For example, Frasers Hill and Cameron
Highlands are important to montane birds, and are very popular with local
and international birders.
Out of the 10 sites listed, Layang-Layang,
the Rejang Delta, Terusan Sandang, and Tambisan, do not seem to be included
in any protected category. Therefore, steps should be made to conserve
them into some form of forest reserve, wildlife sanctuary, or state park,
before the birds are decimated by encroachment, hunting or habitat changes.
Of all the 10 sites identified, the most threatened
is possibly the Layang-Layang atoll in the Spratleys. Being isolated,
Layang-Layang and her inhabitants were relatively safe from intrusion,
but the arrival and long-term presence of humans may prove to be disastrous.
Humans may introduce predator species alien
to the ecology of Layang-Layang, and for which the local birds are not
adapted to defend and compete. For example, these introduced species like
rats, cats, and dogs, may lead to nest predation, with the loss of eggs
and nestlings. Extensive losses will negate any chance of recovery and
replacement, and if the bird species are not resilient enough, will mean
species extinction.
In terms of site conservation, Layang-Layang
is of the highest priority, and in the meantime, efforts should be made
to limit the number of introduced species on the island, before it is too
late.
Back to 1999 November Newsletter
index
[
Back to MNS Perak Home ]
Created on 11th Nov 1999