Timor military breed rare birds

DILI, East Timor: The local military district is breeding endangered deer and birds on Atauro island, some 40 miles north of here.

"We mean to help the East Timor government preserve forests and endangered species in the province," military commandant Lt. Col. Soekoco told Antara Saturday.

Soekoco said the project was expected to attract tourists. The waters around Atauro are well-known for their whales in December.

Atauro is barren and suitable for reforestation and conservation projects, he said. (pan)