Vol 1 No 1
Dec 93

Wildlife Sanctuary
(Part 1)

(Part 2) what you can experience
at the Park

Demystifying Migration:
A study of birds on the
East Asian Flyway

Insectivorous Bats: Studying them at the Park
  Research at Sungei Buloh Nature Park
Demystifying Migration

The East Asian Flyway is one of the least studied of the migratory systems in the world. Research work on migration requires manpower, time and expenses and must be carried out consistently and over decades. Increasing interest in conservation has resulted in increased ringing and banding activities within the Asian region and it is hoped that with this, the East Asian Flyway can be better understood.

Measurements of the bird are taken before a ring is clipped on
Last season, birds were rung in the Park. Among them were Whimbrels, Common Redshanks, Common Greenshanks, Marsh Sandpipers and Pacific Golden Plovers. Recaptured birds included Common Redshanks and Pacific Golden Plovers (these are birds which have been rung previously).

Ringing is a delicate affair requiring a soft touch and much patience. During ringing, mist nests are set up at suitable locations at dusk. At night and according to tide levels, birds fly in to roost in the ponds. As they do so, they are trapped in the nets and gently removed by ringers.
Measurements of the birds are taken and a ring bearing a serial number and the ringer's name and address is clipped around its leg. The bird is then colour banded (or dyed) and released. If the bird is recovered elsewhere by other ringers, the previous ringer will be informed. Information is then gathered and collated.

Ringing establishes migratory routes and arrival and departure patterns. It also contributes to knowledge in plumage and weight changes and lifespan.
   
© Sungei Buloh Nature Park