In the tropical waters off Asajaya, Sarawak, a remarkable event unfolded – the reappearance of a mythical creature, the Chinese Crested Tern. This majestic bird, known as the “bird of legend,
” had not been seen in Malaysian skies since 1913. Imagine that – more than a century has passed since its last sighting, when televisions were yet to grace our living rooms.
The sighting of this Critically Endangered species by the Malaysian Nature Society Kuching Branch (MNSKB) caused ripples of excitement among researchers and conservationists worldwide. Dr. Yong Ding Li, East Asian-Australasian flyway coordinator for BirdLife International, expressed his jubilation over this momentous occasion: “
It’s a major milestone for the species and an exciting development for global seabird conservation.
”
The Chinese Crested Tern (Thalasseus bernsteini) holds a precarious position on the edge of extinction with fewer than 200 individuals remaining across the globe. Dr. Yong Ding Li reaffirmed its rarity by stating, “
This is one of the rarest birds on Earth, and among the rarest seabirds in Asia.
”
Rose Au, Chairperson of MNSKB, captured the essence of this discovery beautifully: “
To see this bird…is a moment of profound joy and a call to recognize…the importance of its habitat.” The significance lies not only in its rediscovery but also in shedding light on crucial conservation efforts needed to protect its dwindling population.
The journey back from near-extinction began when the Chinese Crested Tern was rediscovered in 2000 on Taiwan’s Matsu Islands with only about 50 individuals left. Today’s estimates suggest a slight increase to between 100-150 individuals; however, dangers still lurk around every corner for these graceful creatures.
Illegal egg harvesting by fishermen, typhoon damage, loss of coastal wetlands’ habitats are just some threats facing their survival. Yat-tung Yu from Hong Kong Bird Watching Society emphasized how crucial it is to protect these birds throughout their range – breeding grounds, stopover sites, and wintering areas all play vital roles in safeguarding their existence.
The discovery resonates beyond just one species; it underscores the critical importance of preserving habitats along migratory routes like the East Asian-Australasian flyway. Bako-Buntal Bay stands out as an Important Bird and Biodiversity Area vital for overwintering waterbirds like Far Eastern Curlews and Spotted Greenshanks.
Furthermore, this finding serves as a wake-up call regarding underexplored regions like Sarawak’s coastline that require immediate attention through conservation initiatives like those spearheaded by Malaysian Nature Society and BirdLife International.
Despite challenges posed by look-alike tern species and inaccessible nesting sites due to tidal conditions, dedicated conservationists continue their relentless efforts towards protecting these avian treasures.
As we witness this resurgence of hope for the Chinese Crested Tern in Malaysia after so many years lost in obscurity,
let us also be inspired to join hands in ensuring that such magnificent beings thrive alongside us on this planet we all call home.
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