Aceh is a province that still possesses the natural wealth of biodiversity, both flora and fauna, in particular birds are dominant. Birds have a significant role for the balance of ecosystems and need to be preserved and maintained. Moreover, birds constitute an important indicator in the assessment of quality and productivity of the environment as they are relatively easy to locate. Besides birds, Aceh is also home to various other rare animal species: Among others, Orangutans (Pongo pygmaeus), the Sumatran Tiger (Panther tigris sumatrae) and many more. Unfortunately, these animals often become commodities that are traded illegally, which poses a great threat to the populations. The lack of public concern regarding this issue is one of the reasons for the decline of wildlife populations in Aceh. Yet preserving the environment is the responsibility of the whole society, including governments and institutions. In this regard, there is need for an understanding of the role of birds and other wildlife species in the ecosystem. This understanding can be established through a form of training observation.
During the years 2008-2009, Nanggroe Lembga Cicem was actively involved in the celebration of World Migratory Bird Day (WMBD) through a variety of activities.
This year’s theme aims on raising awareness of migratory birds which are Globally Threatened, with special focus on those at the edge of extinction. In line with the International Year of Biodiversity 2010, WMBD 2010 also highlights how migratory birds are part of the world's diversity and the threats each bird species is facing. Thus, this is a reflection of an even larger crisis threatening the extinction of other species and our natural diversity that supports all life on earth.
This year’s event will involve 30 participants; students from high schools and the general public from Nagan Raya. Activities will last for two days. On the first day the participants will be given information material about animal observation, receive an introduction on existing identification techniques and further aims to increase public awareness about the importance of these animals. On the second day, participants will conduct direct observation themselves in order to better understand the material that has been given to them. Participants will be divided into small groups accompanied by a field instructor. Furthermore, participants will conduct discussions after observation and evaluation.