The Culture of Sound: A Case Study of Birdsong Competition in Chana District, Thailand

Southeast Asian birdsong competitions are vital to the makeup of the Southern Thai economy. This is a qualitative research that uses observation, interview and document study to examine the zebra dove culture of Chana District in Songkhla Province. The research results show that vocal zebra dove competitions stimulate and drive the economy and society of Chana District. Zebra dove breeding is a large and lucrative occupation in the area that has spawned a number of supplementary professions, including birdcage production. The success of local breeding has given Chana an international reputation and has been used as a stimulus for political demonstrations. The original spirit of the songbird culture remains as part of a highly developed financial system.