Narinjara News, April 23, 2025 

In Rakhine State's Mrauk-U Township, a surge in air gun shootings of birds has alarmed local residents, particularly those who are bird enthusiasts. 

Residents express that it is essential to prohibit openly and strictly the shooting of birds with air guns. Mrauk U is a township governed by the Arakan Army (AA), and the AA must ban the use of air guns to hunt birds. 

A local mentioned that recently in villages and neighborhoods of Mrauk-U Township, there have been reports of air gun shootings targeting birds like common mynas, jungle mynas, spotted doves, house sparrows, red vented bulbuls, crows, and various other species. 

"If you aim at ten birds with a bow and slingshot, you’re likely to strike one. Using an air rifle, you target through a scope. Typically, you'll strike one after another. If you hunt for an extended period, it may result in the extinction of birds. Thus, we were afraid of extinction,” he stated. 

He highlighted that using air guns to shoot birds in neighborhoods and villages can also endanger people and should be avoided. 

“Shooting in residential areas is problematic if you unintentionally harm someone. It can pose risks," he stated. 

Many birds, like spotted doves and sparrows, primarily consume rice and insects. They reside in trees within the forest, yet they depend on humans and construct nests in homes, buildings, and trees. 

Consequently, these birds pose no threat to the environment or people, and they thrive joyfully with their distinctive genetic sound, which benefits the ecosystem, stated another bird enthusiast. 

"When birds are present, the forest remains tranquil. With their tiny voices, nature feels more complete. In the same way, they reside in villages and consume rice and paddy grains. They consume little food. Nobody is hurt. The air gun shooters use air guns to shoot and kill them, resulting in a lack of food. It's unprofitable. Even if they manage to sell them, what amount will they receive? It's a poor task. I wish for them to be prohibited," he stated. 

A local mentioned that certain markets have also encountered young birds acquired through this method of shooting.

Conversely, the birds, which are safeguarded by both male and female after laying their eggs, fail to hatch, leading to the loss of the chicks. 

Moreover, residents of Rakhine asserted that the AA's local authorities should prohibit this activity, as using air guns to shoot birds may result in the species' eventual extinction. 

Rakhine State is an area rich in wild birds, featuring a coastline and tall, lush mountains.