Poaching of endangered birds rises in Arakan State

By Admin 31 Oct 2024

DMG Newsroom
31 October 2024, Sittwe

Environmentalists have called for an end to the poaching of endangered and threatened bird species in some of Arakan State's most biologically precious habitats.

Poaching of endangered or threatened bird species has increased in Arakan State as armed conflict between Myanmar's military regime and the Arakkha Army (AA) have severely disrupted conservation efforts.

"More and more bird species are faced with [local] extinction year after year. Some have gone extinct due to poor conservation. The situation has worsened as we can't enforce regulations during the war period," said one environmentalist.

Sightings of various bird species in Arakan State during the cold season in previous years have declined significantly this year, he added.

Increased poaching of birds has been reported around Nanthar Island in Rathedaung Township and Kyun Nanthar Island in Gwa Township, according to residents. With their rich biodiversity, the two islands are important habitats for wintering migratory birds.

"As there are no rangers, people come to the island to poach birds," said a Rathedaung resident. "Migratory birds will come soon, and they are at risk."

Designated as a marine national park earlier this year, Nanthar Island provides habitat for around 80 globally endangered species.

But the number of migratory birds that came to shelter at Nanthar Island declined by around 70 percent after Cyclone Mocha hit Arakan State in May of last year, according to the Rakhine State Biodiversity and Nature Conservation Association.

Located off the coast of mainland Arakan State, Nanthar Island has reportedly been left unattended from a conservation perspective, with fighting in the region having displaced environmental watchdogs along with civilians.

"Residents have fled due to the fighting," said a resident of Kyeintali on the mainland in Gwa Township. "Those who were conserving Kyun Nanthar have also fled. The Myanmar military has a base on that island. But I don't think they will take care of the island."