150 bird shelters have been erected to  safeguarding endangered bird species within their natural habitat in Munaung Township, located in Rakhine State.

Ko Aung Myint Thu, a driving force behind this endeavor, says the primary goal is to safeguard bird species from the brink of extinction, while preserving the integrity of the natural environment and ecosystem.

"We placed bird shelters in areas where development projects may occur. By doing so, we're proactively safeguarding bird habitats in case of tree removal due to development, all in the interest of protecting bird species”, he told DMG.

Since September 23rd, the installation of bird shelters on trees surrounding Theinbala Beach, Taungni Hill, and the coral reefs of Munaung Island in underway.

With contributions from concerned individuals who share a commitment to the preservation of local bird species, bird shelters were purchased and strategically placed throughout Munaung. This initiative was spearheaded by Ramree Township-based writer Aung Zay Min, who organized the funding for this cause.

Environmentalists emphasize the vital connection between the spread of bird species and the overall ecosystem. They advocate for the cost-effective implementation of dedicated conservation initiatives for bird species alongside ongoing forest preservation efforts.

UN experts also stress that the protection of biodiversity and forest conservation is vital for the survival of our planet, and helps to curb climate change.

Bird shelters are crafted from wood and bamboo, available in three distinct styles, with an average cost of approximately 5000 kyats per shelter.

During March, around 120 bird shelters were dispersed and affixed to Kyaung Hill and Tanphokha Hill in the vicinity of Laytaung town near Ramree. Those overseeing this endeavor have since reported that the number of bird shelters in Ramree has now more than 400.

"This plan ensures the protection of bird species and our ecosystem. We endorse these efforts and aspire to see even more bird shelters put in place”, said Ko Myint Myat Aung, a resident of Munaung.

Environmentalists have cautioned that the gradual depletion of mangroves and other forests in Rakhine State is leading to a decline in bird species that rely on these habitats for their survival.

U Yan Naung Soe, the chairperson of the Rakhine Biodiversity and Nature Conservation Association, has expressed concern that among the over 100 bird species inhabiting Rakhine State, several larger-sized species are at risk of extinction.

"Our ongoing monitoring shows a significant drop in bird numbers in the area. We're consistently conducting surveys and conservation efforts, meticulously tracking bird populations by species. We urge the local community to refrain from catching and consuming birds”, he said.