elan perumal The Star 31 Jul 14;
A DUMPSITE that is home to herons and egrets in Jinjang North has to be preserved, said the Malaysian Nature Society (MNS).
It has called on all concerned parties to take necessary measures to ensure the area in Taman Beringin is protected for the sake of the migratory birds.
Describing the area as unique, society communications head Andrew Sebastian said MNS would work with the landowner, the Kuala Lumpur Drainage and Irrigation Department (DID), to prevent any form of destruction to nature at the site.
As the birds were protected, he added that no one should be allowed to cause any damage to their natural habitat.
“The trees in the area should be retained as a place for the birds to breed.
“We will ask DID to collaborate by cleaning up the clogged drain and prevent the birds’ droppings from flowing out of the area,” he said, adding that the droppings on the drain left a bad odour.
“Residents, on the other hand should help by preventing poachers from entering the area to kill the birds,” he said.
Sebastian said they could play whistle-blower by keeping their eyes and ears open, and alert the authorities whenever they saw suspicious people around.
“They should be proud that the area has become an instant attraction due to the presence of the migratory birds,” he said.
Sebastian said the residents should educate their children on the birds, adding that it could also serve as an educational spot for schools in the area.
The society would also work closely with the Selangor Wildlife and National Parks Department (Perhilitan) to help preserve the area.
Sebastian said there were nests of four types of birds, and that 50% of the birds were herons.
“There are at least two Black Crowned Night Herons and Purple Herons.
“About 30% of the bird population in the area is made up of Cattle Egrets and the rest comprise Great and Little Egrets,” he said.
The presence of a pond and wild trees at the site was conducive for the birds to breed.
“These birds feed on frogs and lizards and nestle in areas that are closer to water,” he said.
StarMetro reported on July 24 that the presence of migratory birds in two residential areas in Kuala Lumpur and Selangor has residents worried that poachers would be targeting the birds.
This was following complaints from other residents that the birds were a nuisance because of the loud noise they made, as well as the droppings in the neighbourhood.
A state Perhilitan officer had said that those who hunt the protected species without a special permit could face a maximum fine of RM100,000 or jailed three years, or both.
