India’s First Hornbill Conservation Centre
The Tamil Nadu government has initiated India’s first Centre of Excellence for Hornbill Conservation at the Anamalai Tiger Reserve (ATR) in Coimbatore district. This pioneering effort aims to protect hornbills, vital seed dispersers in tropical forests, threatened by habitat loss and climate change. Funded with ₹1 crore under the Endangered Species Conservation Corpus Fund, the Centre will focus on research, habitat restoration, and community involvement to safeguard four hornbill species native to the Western Ghats.
Ecological Importance of Hornbills
Hornbills are crucial for forest regeneration. They disperse seeds of native trees, maintaining biodiversity and forest health. Known as farmers of the forest, these birds support the growth of species like fig and canarium trees. Their decline affects entire ecosystems and other wildlife dependent on forest habitats.
Threats to Hornbill Populations
Hornbills face threats from deforestation, habitat fragmentation, and climate change. These factors reduce nesting sites and food availability. Fragmented forests isolate populations, increasing vulnerability. Climate shifts alter flowering and fruiting patterns, disrupting hornbill feeding and breeding cycles.
Role of Anamalai Tiger Reserve
ATR was chosen for its rich biodiversity and strong conservation record. It already protects tigers, elephants, lion-tailed macaques, and other endemic species. The reserve’s existing infrastructure supports scientific research and monitoring. This makes it an ideal hub for hornbill conservation leadership.
Key Species Under Protection
The Centre will focus on four hornbill species found in the Western Ghats –
- Great Hornbill (Buceros bicornis)
- Malabar Grey Hornbill (Ocyceros griseus)
- Malabar Pied Hornbill (Anthracoceros coronatus)
- Indian Grey Hornbill (Ocyceros birostris)
Each species plays a distinct ecological role and requires targeted conservation strategies.
Conservation Activities and Research
The Centre will conduct habitat mapping, nest monitoring, and climate impact assessments. Restoration of degraded forests will involve planting native tree species that support hornbill diets. Scientific studies will enhance understanding of hornbill ecology and threats. Data will guide adaptive conservation measures.
Community Engagement and Capacity Building
Local communities will be involved through nest adoption programmes and sustainable livelihoods like seed collection. Scholarships for students aim to nurture future conservationists. Forest staff will receive training to improve protection efforts. Awareness campaigns and school field visits will encourage public support.
Collaborations and Expansion
The Tamil Nadu Forest Department will partner with national and international organisations such as the Salim Ali Centre for Ornithology and Natural History, Nature Conservation Foundation, Wildlife Institute of India, and the International Union for Conservation of Nature’s Hornbill Specialist Group. Similar conservation initiatives will extend to Kalakkad Mundanthurai Tiger Reserve, Sathyamangalam Tiger Reserve, and parts of Kanyakumari district.
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