The Star 7 May 09;
LATELY, there have been calls by individuals and concerned NGOs on the dangers of allowing swiftlet nesting to thrive without any form of regulations in the midst of human dwellings.
I can understand the fears, concern and frustrations of residents caught in the midst of booming swiftlet nestings in their neirbourhood.
I am sure the authorities have taken note of the problems, especially those that are associated with public health and environmental pollution.
Those unable to face the nuisance of these “illegal settlement” of swiftlets in their neibourhood can use electronic bird repellers to chase away these birds without harming them.
I am not sure whether such gadgets are available locally but they can be purchased in the international open market.
There are several types of bird repelling gadgets in the market.
The one that emits sound waves will automatically broadcast a variety of naturally recorded bird distress signals and predator calls to chase away nesting birds.
There are also bird-repellers that use harmless laser beams to frighten and confuse the birds, causing them to flee from the roosting spots.
Apparently these gadgets are said to be relatively cheap, handy and consumer-safe with inbuilt safety features.
They are fully registered in many countries although I am not sure whether they are allowed in Malaysia.
Some may not like the idea of using such devices for various reasons, including the possible misuse of the gadget.
However if something is not done fast enough, we may end up with a bigger problem later.
In the event of a disease outbreak such as bird flu, some people may use heinous and cruel methods to get rid of these beautiful feathered creatures because they fear that they may spread the disease.
The local authorities should put in place appropriate regulations so that the swiftlet business can continue to thrive freely without becoming a danger and nuisance to the public.
S. PARAM,
Ipoh.
