Is India's First Hornbill Conservation Centre Coming to Annamalai Tiger Reserve in Tamil Nadu?
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Synopsis
The Tamil Nadu government is set to launch India's first Centre for Hornbill Conservation at Annamalai Tiger Reserve, a vital initiative aimed at protecting these unique birds amidst growing environmental threats. This center will engage local communities and collaborate with renowned conservation organizations, marking a significant advancement in wildlife preservation.
Key Takeaways
- Establishment of India's first hornbill conservation centre in Tamil Nadu.
- Focus on protecting four hornbill species native to the Western Ghats.
- Community involvement through various initiatives.
- Collaboration with renowned conservation organizations.
- Expansion of conservation efforts to other biodiversity hotspots.
Chennai, July 22 (NationPress) In a significant move towards enhancing biodiversity conservation, the Tamil Nadu government has unveiled plans for the nation’s first Centre of Excellence for Hornbill Conservation at the Annamalai Tiger Reserve (ATR) located in Coimbatore district.
Hornbills, commonly referred to as the "farmers of the forest" due to their essential role in seed dispersal and forest regeneration, face increasing threats from deforestation, habitat fragmentation, and the impacts of climate change.
In response to these challenges, the state's Department of Environment, Climate Change, and Forests has earmarked Rs 1 crore from the Endangered Species Conservation Corpus Fund to establish this centre. The facility will concentrate on four hornbill species found in the Western Ghats - the Great Hornbill, Malabar Pied Hornbill, Malabar Grey Hornbill, and Indian Grey Hornbill.
Key activities will include habitat mapping, monitoring nesting locations, conducting scientific research, assessing climate impacts, and restoring degraded forests by planting native trees such as fig and canarium, which are crucial food sources for hornbills.
A government order, issued by Supriya Sahu, Additional Chief Secretary of the department, indicated that ATR was selected for its rich biodiversity, effective conservation framework, and previous successes in protecting endangered species like tigers, elephants, and lion-tailed macaques.
This initiative strongly emphasizes community engagement. Local residents will be involved in conservation efforts through nest adoption programs, educational scholarships for students, and livelihood opportunities such as seed collection.
Additionally, the project intends to carry out outreach initiatives, educational field trips for students, and training sessions for forest personnel.
The Centre will collaborate with prominent conservation and research organizations, including the Salim Ali Centre for Ornithology and Natural History, the Nature Conservation Foundation, the Wildlife Institute of India, and the International Union for Conservation of Nature’s (IUCN) Hornbill Specialist Group.
Beyond Annamalai, conservation efforts for hornbills will also extend to other biodiversity hotspots such as the Kalakkad Mundanthurai Tiger Reserve (KMTR), Sathyamangalam Tiger Reserve (STR), and areas in Kanyakumari district. These efforts will include habitat mapping, tree geotagging, phenological studies, and community-driven conservation initiatives.
Point of View
The establishment of the hornbill conservation centre in Tamil Nadu reflects a growing recognition of the importance of biodiversity. This initiative not only focuses on protecting endangered species but also actively involves local communities, demonstrating a holistic approach to conservation that aligns with the nation’s commitment to ecological sustainability.
NationPress
22/07/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the purpose of the hornbill conservation centre?
The hornbill conservation centre aims to protect hornbill species, promote biodiversity, and involve local communities in conservation efforts.
Where is the centre located?
The centre will be established at the Annamalai Tiger Reserve in Coimbatore district, Tamil Nadu.
How much funding has been allocated for the centre?
The Tamil Nadu government has allocated Rs 1 crore from the Endangered Species Conservation Corpus Fund for the establishment of the centre.
Which hornbill species will the centre focus on?
The centre will focus on the Great Hornbill, Malabar Pied Hornbill, Malabar Grey Hornbill, and Indian Grey Hornbill.
What activities will the centre undertake?
Activities will include habitat mapping, nesting site monitoring, scientific research, climate impact assessments, and restoration of degraded forests.
