The Enduring Tale of 'Bird Lake': Memories and Hopes for Survival in an Indonesian Fishing Village

The 'Bird Lake' (Danau Burung), located near the village of Tempirai in South Sumatra, Indonesia, once supported the lives of local residents as a rich fishing ground. Azizah (46) recently returned to the area with her son and relatives to engage in 'lebung' (fishing in small pools), a traditional fishing method, for the first time in approximately 38 years since her childhood. She recalls that in her youth, dozens, even hundreds, of people would fish in this lake, particularly for the abundant 'serandang' fish (Channa pleurophthalma). The contrast between the past vibrancy and the current quietude highlights environmental changes. The name 'Bird Lake' originates from the time when hundreds to thousands of fish-eating birds, especially egrets (kuntul) and cattle egrets (Bubulcus ibis), would flock to the area during the dry season. Local residents also hunted many waterfowl for consumption, such as the whistling duck (belibis batu) and the watercock (burung ayam-ayaman). Azizah's family caught several kilograms of fish (tembakang, gabus, toman) during a two-hour fishing session. Some of the catch was consumed, and the rest was shared with neighbors, reflecting the spirit of mutual assistance in the community. The lake is accessible by foot or bicycle during the dry season, but requires a boat during the rainy season, being about seven kilometers from Tempirai village. For many residents like Azizah, the 'Bird Lake' is more than just a fishing ground; it is a repository of childhood memories and a source of livelihood in the present day. There is a strong desire for its continued existence. However, whether the ecosystem remains as rich as it once was requires further observation. Source: Mongabay Indonesia