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New Indian Express
22-07-2025
- General
- New Indian Express
TN to set up centre for conservation of hornbill
CHENNAI: The Tamil Nadu government has approved the establishment of a centre of excellence for hornbill conservation at the Anamalai Tiger Reserve (ATR), Coimbatore. The decision follows a proposal by the principal chief conservator of forests and chief wildlife warden. A sum of Rs 1 crore from the Endangered Species Conservation Corpus Fund has been allocated to support this initiative in the Western Ghats, a region home for four hornbill species, including the Great Hornbill, Malabar Grey Hornbill, Malabar Pied Hornbill, and Indian Grey Hornbill. The centre will conduct research, restore habitats, and engage communities to address threats like habitat loss and climate change. It will monitor hornbill populations and their habitat use, using methods like distance sampling and GPS telemetry to track seasonal movements. Studies on foraging and nesting ecology will inform restoration efforts, said Supriya Sahu, Additional Chief Secretary, Environment, Forests and Climate Change Department, in a G.O. issued on Monday. The centre will also map food and nest trees to identify areas for conservation and restoration. It will establish a nursery for native species like Ficus and Syzygium to restore degraded forests and install artificial nest boxes to support breeding.
The Hindu
21-07-2025
- General
- The Hindu
Tamil Nadu to set up hornbill conservation centre at Anamalai Tiger Reserve
The Tamil Nadu government has announced the establishment of India's first Centre of Excellence for Hornbill Conservation at the Anamalai Tiger Reserve (ATR) in Coimbatore district. An official release said hornbills, often known as 'farmers of the forest', play a crucial ecological role as seed dispersers, helping regenerate native forests. However, these keystone species are increasingly threatened by deforestation, habitat fragmentation, and the impacts of climate change. Hence, the Department of Environment, Climate Change and Forests has sanctioned ₹1 crore under the Endangered Species Conservation Corpus Fund to establish the Centre. The Centre will focus on four hornbill species found in the Western Ghats — the Great Hornbill, Malabar Grey Hornbill, Malabar Pied Hornbill, and Indian Grey Hornbill. Activities will include habitat mapping, nest monitoring, scientific research, climate impact assessments, and restoration of degraded forest areas by planting native trees such as fig and canarium that support hornbill populations. The G.O. issued by Supriya Sahu, Additional Chief Secretary, Departments of Environment, Climate Change, and Forests, said that Anamalai Tiger Reserve was selected for its ecological richness, existing conservation infrastructure, and for its track record in protecting endangered species including tigers, elephants, lion-tailed macaques, and other endemic wildlife. The initiative also places a strong emphasis on community participation. Local residents will be involved in conservation efforts through nest adoption programmes, scholarships for students, and sustainable livelihoods such as seed collection. Additionally, the project will offer capacity-building programmes for forest staff and host awareness activities including field visits for school children and community outreach. The Tamil Nadu Forest Department will collaborate with leading national and international organisations, including 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. In addition to ATR, similar hornbill conservation activities will be undertaken in other landscapes such as the Kalakkad Mundanthurai Tiger Reserve (KMTR), Sathyamangalam Tiger Reserve (STR), and parts of Kanyakumari district. These efforts will include habitat mapping, geotagging of trees, phenological studies, and community-based conservation initiatives.
Time of India
24-06-2025
- Time of India
5 rare animals to spot in Indian rainforests
India's rainforests are some of the most biodiverse regions in the world, home to countless species found nowhere else on Earth. These rich hotspots stretch from the lush Western Ghats to the dense forests of the Northeast. The green and misty landscapes grow and team up with life, and much of it is still largely unknown to the outside world. Indian rainforests are like stepping into a living, breathing wonderland for someone who loves wildlife or is just curious about nature's hidden treasures. While many are familiar with tigers and elephants, it's the rare and lesser-known species that often surprise. These animals may be hard to spot, but they play an interesting role in the ecosystem, and seeing even one in the wild can be a once-in-a-lifetime experience. Here are 10 rare animals that are spotted in the wild Galaxy Frog Tiny, elusive, and sparkling like a night sky, the galaxy frog is a true rainforest gem. It was discovered only recently in the Western Ghats, and its speckled skin resembles stars scattered across a dark canvas. This endangered amphibian prefers moist leaf litter and is a symbol of the rich, yet fragile, biodiversity in India's forests. Sri Lankan Frogmouth With its wide eyes and unique, frog-like beak, the Sri Lankan frogmouth is one of the strangest birds you'll ever see. by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like 모공 줄이려면, 레이저말고 이렇게 해보세요 미그닥 Undo Found in the dense forests of the Western Ghats, this nocturnal bird is a master of disguise. Its dull, leaf-like plumage makes it almost impossible to spot in the wild. Malabar Grey Hornbill Found only in the Western Ghats, the Malabar grey hornbill is known for its loud calls and dramatic flight. Unlike its more colourful cousins, this hornbill has a muted grey appearance, but its unique casque and behaviour make it interesting to observe. It plays a vital role in forest ecology by dispersing seeds. Malabar Gliding Frog The Malabar gliding frog is one of the largest tree frogs in India. It uses its webbed feet to glide between trees, almost like a little green parachutist. Living high in the canopy of rainforests, it's a rare sight and a true indicator of healthy forest ecosystems. Nilgiri Marten The Nilgiri marten is India's only marten species and one of the most difficult mammals to spot in the wild. Highly flexible and quick, this sleek, chestnut-coloured carnivore lives in the higher altitude forests of the Western Ghats. With its sharp senses and secretive nature, it remains a mystery to most.
India.com
15-06-2025
- India.com
Discover Pune's Top 5 Birdwatching Spots For Nature Enthusiasts
The eastern Oxford of Pune functions as a dual cultural educational center while presenting itself as a perfect environment for nature lovers. Birdwatchers find Pune to be their perfect destination because it sits near the Western Ghats alongside its various ecological habitats. Nature enthusiasts with all experience levels will find multiple nearby locations in Pune that offer splendid opportunities to watch birds in their native habitat. The following guide provides information about the prime locations in the vicinity of Pune that are suitable for birdwatching. 1. Bhimashankar Wildlife Sanctuary The Bhimashankar Wildlife Sanctuary rests about 110 kilometers from Pune as it belongs to the UNESCO World Heritage Site Western Ghats. The sanctuary contains more than 200 bird species that include special endemic and rare bird species including the Malabar Whistling Thrush along with Malabar Grey Hornbill as well as Crested Serpent Eagle. Birdwatchers find Bhimashankar Wildlife Sanctuary perfect due to its dense forests together with its waterfalls and tranquil setting. The location provides sanctuary to various animals including leopards and bison alongside deer which enhance the overall experience for visitors. 2. Katraj-Dehu Road Biodiversity Park Katraj-Dehu Road Biodiversity Park near Pune city stands at 15 kilometers distance and acts as a popular destination for urban bird watching thanks to its artificial recreation of a natural green space. This 37-acre park includes a butterfly park together with medicinal plant garden and small lake that supports various bird species including Purple Sunbird and Ashy Prinia and Indian Robin. The location's easy access allows beginners as well as families to practice birdwatching near Pune city borders. 3. Panshet Dam and Backwaters Panshet Dam attracts many people from Pune who visit this attraction approximately 45 kilometers from the city during their weekends. Water sports along with scenic landscapes form the highlights of this location though it also provides exceptional birdwatching conditions throughout its dam region and backwater areas. Additionally you can identify several waterbirds including Little Grebe Common Kingfisher and the Woolly-necked Stork at that location. Black Kite and Shikra join Black Kite and Shikra among the raptor species that inhabit the hills and vegetation areas around Panshet Dam. Birdwatching provides the best experience at Rajgad on both early mornings and evenings. 4. Rajgad Fort The historical Rajgad Fort around Pune offers trekkers their favorite destination while simultaneously serving as an ideal area to observe birds. The slopes of Rajgad Fort break into two sections which nourish birds including the Indian Peafowl along with the Red-vented Bulbul and White-throated Kingfisher. The area transforms into an active sanctuary in monsoon as different species of migratory birds choose this region as their visiting spot. Visitors seeking a historical adventure through natural surroundings should not miss Rajgad Fort because it delivers everything bird lovers want. 5. Lonavala and Khandala Hills Pune residents reach the mystique coastal regions of Lonavala and Khandala which are 65 kilometers away through their natural scenic beauty. These regions attract regular observations of the Jungle Babbler Oriental Magpie-Robin and Golden Oriole bird species. Views from Tiger's Leap and Duke's Nose form two of the select points where bird watchers can observe nature amongst breathtaking landscape vistas. Birds thrive in this environment because both the temperature and vegetation make an excellent home for local species as well as seasonal visitors. Tips for Bird Watching Near Pune The optimal times to observe active birds during birdwatching occur between early mornings and late afternoons. When birdwatching do not leave home without binoculars, field guidebook camera and walking shoes that provide comfort. Natural habitats deserve our respect because we should neither disrupt the birds nor disturb their environments. Visual observation should be conducted while keeping a silent manner together with sufficient physical distance from the birds. Local bird watching organizations in Pune welcome all members who want to join for scheduled tour activities and communal observation sessions. To view different species, select your visiting periods according to seasonal movements. Conclusion The advantageous geographic location of Pune in the vicinity of Western Ghats together with its multifaceted terrain provides exceptional prospects for birdwatching. The various locations including Panshet Dam backwaters and Bhimashankar Wildlife Sanctuary let each visitor enjoy their unique nature experience. When you visit these locations you have two major benefits: you can enjoy viewing birdlife alongside helping protect endangered natural habitats. Bring your bird watching equipment to these bird observation hotspots and experience the natural harmonies that border Pune.
