THE Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) is calling on communities near migration pathways to help protect migratory birds from poachers and hunters amid the ongoing enhanced community quarantine (ECQ) in celebration of the World Migratory Bird Day (WMBD) on May 9.
WMBD is a global campaign dedicated to raise awareness of migratory birds and the need for international cooperation to conserve them.
This year’s theme “Birds Connect Our World” underscores the importance of conserving and restoring the ecological connectivity and integrity of ecosystems that support the natural cycles that are essential for the survival and well-being of migratory birds.
In Central Luzon, about 500 species of migratory birds or a total of 148,859 population have been observed nesting and breeding in some important wetlands in the region including the Candaba swamp and Sasmuan-Bangkung Malapad in Pampanga, the Balanga wetland and nature park in Bataan and in the Manila Bay area of Bulacan, since January of this year.
Wild birds are traditional delicacies in many Kapampangan and Centra Luzon communities. However, handling of wild birds has serious health risks as these can also be vectors of viral infections like bird flu.
The DENR appealed to the public to avoid hunting bird species for trade, consumption or to keep as pets to prevent the spread of bird flu.
The hunting of wildlife, including wild birds, is illegal and is punishable under Republic Act 9147 or “The Wildlife Resources Conservation and Protection Act”. The DENR advised the public to avoid handling wild birds, especially those which seem sick or ones that are already dead.