Aceh has a fairly large coastline, with the eastern part of Aceh bordering Thailand and Malaysia, the Indian Ocean, and Andaman Islands. The strategic location strongly supports the presence of migratory birds internationally along the East Asia-Australasian Flyway (EAAF). From the results of research conducted by Van Mrie & Voous (1988); Crossland (2000); Iqbal et al (2010); Iqbal et al (2013); Putra et al (2019); Iqbal et al (2020), they recorded 42 species of coastal birds that migrated along the east coast of Aceh province. This year we commemorate Word Migratory Bird Day 2022 with the theme "Save Light for The Future of Migratory Birds". The theme was raised because globally the use of artificial light increases by at least 2 percent per year. Light pollution is a significant threat to migratory birds, resulting in confusion over the bird's flight direction at night, causing collisions with buildings, disrupting their internal clocks, and even interfering with their ability to migrate long distances.
Through the WMBD 2022 event (the event will be following COVID-19 standard regulations), we will conduct a series of events that will educate the public regarding migratory birds and the threats faced when birds migrate. Some of the activities that will be done are:
1. WMBD 2022 Seminar with the theme "Save Light for The Future of Migratory Birds"
The seminar will be filled by speakers who are experienced in the field of bird migration and participate in various migratory bird care activities. The topic of the WMBD 2022 seminar is "The Types and Threats Faced by Migratory Birds In Aceh". The main target of this activity is students from University in Banda Aceh and Aceh Besar.
2. Short Video Competition
The short video competition held aims to invite all people to care more about the existence of migratory birds and educate the public through interesting videos. The theme raised is "Save Light for The Future of Migratory Birds ", and the target of the competition participants is the general public.
3. Poster Design Competition
The poster design competition held aims to educate the public through interesting designs. The theme is "Save Light for The Future of Migratory Birds", and the target of the competition participants is the general public.
4. Migratory Bird Watching
Through WMBD activities, students, bird lover groups, and the general public are invited to enjoy the beauty of birds in the wild, as well as expected to increase awareness of the threats faced when birds migrate, such as habitat destruction / loss or hunting, and light pollution. With the knowledge and experience gained, all circles will be able to play a role in the implementation of biodiversity conservation efforts in their respective regions.
Expected results
- Educate 100 students and the public to protect migratory birds and the threats faced during migration
- Fostering a sense of responsibility and a sense of love of the environment
- Formation of a joint commitment to monitoring migratory birds in Banda Aceh
- Build relationships between birdwatchers and the community and stakeholders