Raising Public Awareness about Birds through Flagship Species Selection in Arjan Wetland

Promoting Conservation through Community Engagement and Education

In 2022, the AvayeBoom Bird Conservation Society initiated a project to raise public awareness about birds by selecting a flagship species for the Arjan Wetland. This project, financially supported by UDPS/SGP and Mras Parishan Association, aimed to use a charismatic and notable species to increase public awareness and support for wildlife conservation. Avaye Zist Boum Arjan is currently assisting with the ongoing stages of the project.

Objectives and Goals

The primary goals of this project were:

  1. To increase public awareness about birds and their importance.
  2. To promote birdwatching-based ecotourism in the region.
  3. To create a model for other regions in Iran to support similar initiatives.

Methodology

The project was conducted in several stages:

  1. Preliminary Survey: Conducting pre-tests to assess baseline awareness and attitudes.
  2. Criteria Development: Establishing criteria for selecting the flagship species based on geographical distribution, conservation status, ecological role, recognition, existing usage, charisma, cultural significance, positive associations, traditional knowledge, and common names.
  3. Field Interviews: Interviewing 65 local residents and nomads (2.7% of the local population) to gather information on their knowledge and perceptions of different bird species.
  4. Species Selection: Based on the collected data, the Ruddy Shelduck (Tadorna ferruginea) was selected as the flagship species for the Arjan Wetland.
  5. Educational Materials: Designing 12 educational posters and organizing workshops and activities.

Community Engagement and Activities

Since the project’s launch, several activities have been carried out:

  • Educational Workshops: Conducted four workshops in the village adjacent to the wetland to educate locals about birds and the importance of conservation.
  • Birdwatching Tours: Organized a birdwatching tour for local teenagers to foster interest in birdwatching.
  • Book Reading Competitions: Held two book reading competitions in schools near the wetland to increase knowledge about birds.
  • Statue and Cooperative: Ongoing activities include constructing a statue of the Ruddy Shelduck in the village center and establishing a rural cooperative for ecotourism development.

Impact and Community Response

A pre-test was conducted before the project started, and a post-test will be conducted after its completion to measure the project’s impact. The results will be published to share insights into the project’s effectiveness.

Acknowledgments

The AvayeBoom Bird Conservation Society extends its sincere gratitude to UDPS/SGP, Mras Parishan Association, and Avaye Zist Boum Arjan for their financial and operational support. Special thanks to all the volunteers and local stakeholders who have contributed to the project’s success.