VOICED : Indonesian birds on the brink as forests plundered

Indonesia's passion for bird chirping contests is growing, driven by prize money and national competitions. However, this trend threatens wild bird populations due to easy trapping and smuggling. Some competitions now restrict entries to captive-bred birds, identifiable by metal rings. Despite these efforts, weak law enforcement and high demand jeopardize the future of wild birds in Indonesia.

What is the main attraction for people participating in caged bird contests in Indonesia?

• The ability to own rare species

• The opportunity to win prize money

• The chance to travel internationally

• The beauty of the birds

What is one of the main concerns associated with the growing popularity of chirping contests?

• The rise in bird breeding farms

• The extinction of some wild bird species

• The increase in bird beauty pageants

• The decline in bird singing quality

What method is often used to smuggle birds in Indonesia?

• Hiding them in suitcases

• Transporting them in large cages

• Stuffing them in plastic bottles

• Disguising them as other animals

How do competitions attempt to ensure only farmed birds participate?

• By requiring a certificate of origin

• By checking the birds' singing abilities

• By applying metal rings to chicks' legs

• By using color-coded feathers

What is a major challenge in protecting Indonesia's wild bird population?

• Lack of interest in bird contests

• Overpopulation of farmed birds

• Strict law enforcement

• Booming demand and weak law enforcement