(At the Competition scene. /CFP)

On September 15 local time, Narathiwat Province in southern Thailand held its annual singing bird competition. About 1,250 songbirds from Thailand, Malaysia, and Singapore gathered to compete, filling their cages with clear, melodious calls that drew large crowds of spectators.

(Participants hang their bird cages in the designated area. /CFP)

As a unique local tradition, the bird singing contest is not only a stage for bird enthusiasts but also an important platform for cultural exchange in the border region. Judges score each bird based on tone, rhythm, and endurance to determine the winners.

After the competition, the value of winning birds and experienced breeders often rises significantly, gradually forming a complete industry chain covering breeding, training, care, and trade.

The significance of the competition goes beyond mere contest. Studies show it brings substantial economic benefits: sales of bird feed, cages, and care products surge; the influx of participants and tourists boosts spending on accommodation, transportation, and food; and some high-quality handcrafted bird cages can sell for premium prices, becoming notable local handicrafts. Local merchants report noticeably higher customer traffic during the event, with business far exceeding normal days.

According to the organizers, the bird singing competition has a history of several decades in southern Thailand. Today, it has evolved from a folk pastime into a regional cultural and economic event.

With increasing cross-border participation, this unique “birdsong contest” is becoming an important bridge connecting people in Thailand and neighboring countries while promoting economic interaction.