Correspondent
PASIGHAT, 2 May: A rare adult oriental pied hornbill (Anthracoceros albirostris) was sighted in Forest Colony here in East Siang district on Friday after a long gap, creating enthusiasm among wildlife activists and nature lovers.
The bird was seen foraging on a tree near the chief conservator of forest office bungalow by Adi Bane Kebang youth wing secretary Biswajit Tayeng.
Tayeng said spotting the bird species in their area after a long gap indicates a healthy habitat, as hornbills are important ecological indicators and play a vital role in dispersal of seed and forest regeneration.
“The presence of the rare species has highlighted the importance of enhancing conservation and eco-development activities such as preservation of wildlife habitat, community awareness, and sustainable practices,” he said, urging local people to “refrain from disturbance, hunting, or harmful activities to safeguard the region’s rich biodiversity.”
He also urged the forest department to survey hornbill populations and take adequate conservation measures.
