BIRDSONG 

From the primitive paintings etched in the depths of ancient caves to the realm of digital pixels, one fundamental human desire remains unchanged—the need for collective memories. Throughout history, humans have sought to capture and preserve their experiences, emotions and encounters with the natural world.

The 19th century marked a turning point with the invention of the daguerreotype- a practical way to obtain permanent images. Photographers then ventured into the wild to capture the beauty and diversity of wildlife, spearheading many conservation efforts.

KEBUN BARU AND BIRD-SINGING CONTESTS

Kebun Baru in Singapore is one of the venues famous for bird-singing contests in South East Asia.

In Indonesia it is known as Kicau Mania, in Thailand as Nok Krung Kao and as Ketit in Malaysia.

As a photographer, I have worked in many genres; these include cultural events such as Chinese Opera, The Nine Emperor Festival and Thaipusam. I also have an exhibition on Asian Flowers.

My initiation into Photography as an art form was as an animal photographer- I captured animals in their natural habitat.

For this, I travelled through Asia and the Americas.

I also spent two seasons in Tanzania.

I was completely unaware of the existence of “Bird- Singing Contests” until 2023.

This was introduced to me in Kebun Baru. I immediately resonated with the event and took many photos.

It was so interesting I felt a need to do delve into the topic and record my experience.

The competitions are popular events and are held at monthly intervals.

On the day I was present, the atmosphere was charged with anticipation as the bird owners prepared their prized songbirds for the competition.

When the sun arose, bird owners removed intricate bird covers and hoisted the cages up poles, set in a green field.

The scene quickly filled with people-- from huffing joggers to housewives pulling trolleys. Parents with their children in hand also came to witness the unique spectacle.

When the Judges appeared, the light-hearted banter among the bird owners ceased and gave way to nervous energy. The birds sensing the tension, became skittish. They were silenced momentarily and then the raucous began again.

The Keban Baru Singing Contest showcased a variety of songbird species, each with its own unique prowess.

Connoisseurs particularly prize species such as the

- Merbok Jambul (Red -Whiskered Bulbul)

- Mata Puteh (Oriental White Eye)

- Merbok (Zebra Dove)

- Hwa Mei (Chinese Thrush)

- White-Rumped Shama

As a bird enthusiast and photographer, I was particularly interested in the Red-Whiskered Bulbul, having captured images of it many times in the wild.

In captivity, this species is housed in tall, angular cages pointed at the top.

The judging criteria for the competition focused on objective factors such as the number of times the bird trilled per round, the quality and clarity of its voice and its ability to piroutte while singing.

The judges had distinctive styles too.

Each would listen intently, frown and write down the scores.

They made observations standing close to the cages as well as from a distance.

Many crouched and counted as the birds hopped; the trills and quality of the vocalizations were also gauged.

After the judging, the atmosphere went back to camaraderie and laughter.

The scores were tallied by a computer and the winners announced.

I took happy pictures of triumphant men with their golden trophies!

After the competition concluded, I took the opportunity to explore the estate and Ang Mo Kio for a week. The atmosphere shifted from a frenzy of activity to peaceful serenity.

I visited enclaves of bird owners and reflected on their dedication.

Bird rearing needs much knowledge.

Once the birds are chosen, meticulous care is provided to ensure their well-being and optimal development.

This includes providing spacious enclosures, appropriate perches and bathing areas.

Nutrition plays a vital role in the rearing process. A balanced diet comprising high-quality seeds, fresh fruit, vegetables and protein supplements is used. Experienced breeders pay careful attention to diet to ensure strong vocal cords and robust performing abilities.

Various techniques are used to enhance a bird’s natural singing ability.

Audio recordings, other live birds and even human singing are among the tools used to teach song patterns, mimicry and refinement.

Throughout Asia, men have long owned birds, cherishing them as companions and performers. Whether bred in captivity or captured in the wild, these birds are fed and  cared for by gnarled hands.

Each bird is eventually trained to be a performer, housed in ornate cages, their songs echoing within gilded confines.

HAIKU

Red-Whiskered Bulbul caged

Beloved by your owner

Do you sing for him?

Written by Patricia Yih