Itanagar, May 5: In a significant development for biodiversity in the Eastern Himalayas, a rare adult Oriental pied hornbill has been sighted in Pasighat in East Siang district after a long gap, officials said.
The bird was observed foraging near a forest office area by local resident Biswajit Tayeng, drawing attention from wildlife enthusiasts and conservationists. Experts consider hornbills to be vital ecological indicators, with their presence reflecting the health and stability of forest ecosystems.
Often described as the “farmers of the forest,” hornbills play a crucial role in seed dispersal and forest regeneration, thereby sustaining biodiversity. Their survival is closely linked to the availability of mature trees and undisturbed habitats, making such sightings particularly noteworthy.
Forest officials stated that the development indicates favourable habitat conditions in the region and suggests that ongoing conservation efforts are producing positive outcomes. The sighting has also renewed focus on the importance of protecting Arunachal Pradesh’s forests, a key component of the Eastern Himalayan biodiversity hotspot.
Deputy Chief Minister Chowna Mein welcomed the development, describing it as an encouraging sign of ecological balance. He emphasised the species’ role in forest regeneration and highlighted the need for continued conservation measures.
Authorities have reiterated the importance of preventing deforestation, safeguarding natural habitats, and strengthening community participation to ensure long-term environmental sustainability in the region.
