Bird contest in Bengkulu

BENGKULU, Bengkulu: Bird lovers in Java and Sumatra will be flocking, along with their prized feathered pets, to Bengkulu in October where a bird singing contest will be held to find the most melodious murai and small turtledoves.

Head of the local tourist office, Sudiono, said the birdsong contest would be held from Oct. 25 to Oct. 29.

"The competition aims to foster the rearing of murais and turtledoves, along with promoting tourism in Bengkulu," Sudiono was quoted by Antara as saying Saturday.

Apart from the competition, the event will be a meeting point for bird enthusiasts to talk and exchange ideas. (mds)