Tamil Nadu Unveils First Hornbill Conservation Hub in India

Nation’s first dedicated hornbill centre

Tamil Nadu Unveils First Hornbill Conservation Hub in India: In a groundbreaking step for wildlife preservation, the Tamil Nadu Government has initiated the country’s first dedicated Centre of Excellence for Hornbill Conservation. This specialized facility will be located within the Anamalai Tiger Reserve (ATR), positioned in Coimbatore district.

The centre will serve as a hub for focused research, monitoring, and conservation of various hornbill species inhabiting the southern forests of India, especially the Great Hornbill, a vital species for forest regeneration.

Why hornbills matter in ecosystems

Known as “farmers of the forest,” hornbills are crucial for dispersing seeds and maintaining forest diversity. However, their population is under threat due to deforestation, illegal hunting, and scarcity of large nesting trees.

Out of the nine hornbill species in India, four are found in the Western Ghats, making this region essential for their survival. This includes the Malabar Grey Hornbill, known for its endemic presence in southern India.

Static GK fact: The Great Hornbill is categorized as Vulnerable under the IUCN Red List and is the state bird of Arunachal Pradesh.

Ecological value of Anamalai Tiger Reserve

The Anamalai Tiger Reserve, part of the globally recognized Western Ghats, hosts a mosaic of forest types, including evergreen and deciduous forests. Spanning nearly 960 sq km, the reserve is rich in bird diversity with over 250 avian species recorded.

Its ecological richness makes it a perfect location for a hornbill-focused centre, helping bridge the gap in species-specific conservation initiatives.

Static GK Tip: The Western Ghats are among the world’s top eight biodiversity hotspots and extend across five Indian states: Tamil Nadu, Kerala, Karnataka, Goa, and Maharashtra.

Purpose and focus areas of the new centre

The conservation hub will undertake field research, nest monitoring, habitat restoration, and community involvement programs. It aims to document hornbill habits, breeding behaviour, and nesting ecology in detail.

Importantly, the project also seeks to engage indigenous communities in conservation, turning them into partners in forest protection through livelihood support and education.

Tamil Nadu’s progressive wildlife steps

This initiative adds to Tamil Nadu’s growing record in environmental stewardship. The state has implemented successful conservation strategies across its tiger reserves, elephant corridors, and biodiversity parks.

The Forest Department of Tamil Nadu is leading this hornbill project in partnership with conservation biologists, researchers, and NGOs, reinforcing the state’s commitment to species preservation.

Static GK fact: Tamil Nadu ranks among Indian states with the highest number of designated protected areas, including national parks, sanctuaries, and biosphere reserves.

Wider impact and long-term vision

The establishment of this centre is expected to inspire similar models in other states. It supports India’s obligations under the Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD) and strengthens national efforts outlined in the National Biodiversity Action Plan (NBAP).

By launching this one-of-a-kind facility, Tamil Nadu sets a precedent for targeted conservation that combines scientific research with community-driven strategies.

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Tamil Nadu Unveils First Hornbill Conservation Hub in India: