I know that much of Kansas is flat, that there is much corn, and that gray skies might bring fear to a day where the sun shone in the morning. I've never been to Kansas--that I remember now as an adult.
I know that Southeast Asia, has not been hospitable to many an American in the past. We as a nation know that exerting geopolitical will, for our own justified causes, or to aid others comes at great cost and suffering, no matter how noble the intent.
I also know that there are leaches large and plentiful, and that if you are still and quiet enough in the right patch of lush rainforest there, that you can hear them dropping from leaf to leaf as they make their way towards you. Papua New Guinea has some of the most amazing birds and creatures on the planet. Birds of paradise share forest with Orangutans. I know that Southeast Asia is an amazing place for many reasons, but the reason I so would want to be there is of course, the birds. To date I've only experienced the smallest fraction of Southeast Asian bird species in Zoos.
Many of us however, also know of a continuing tragedy. We know that each day that goes by, results in loss of rainforest habitat. As the habitat/forest leaves on the logging truck, so do the birds. With the years, and loss of wild areas, we are losing species diversity. In many areas of the world the clock is ticking as species fade away with deforestation. The clock seems to tick a beat or two faster in Southeast Asia. NEXT PAGE / MORE