Special Initiative for Rare Hornbill Conservation: Natural Gardens Taking Shape in Udanti–Sitanadi

Raipur, February 2026 : Hornbills are among the most fascinating and unique birds in the world. Their large size, massive beaks, striking and colorful feathers, and generally noisy behavior make them easy to identify. Their unusual nesting habits are another distinctive feature that makes hornbills so interesting. In Chhattisgarh’s Udanti–Sitanadi region, special natural gardens are being developed for the conservation of the rare Malabar Pied Hornbill. These will be designed as “Hornbill Restaurants.”

Considering hornbills as the “farmers of the forest,” it is essential to reduce the risk of their extinction through measures such as monitoring nesting sites, installing artificial nests, conducting research, and ensuring community participation through programs like “nest adoption.” Under the guidance of Forest and Climate Change Minister Shri Kedar Kashyap and the leadership of Principal Chief Conservator of Forests (Wildlife) Shri Arun Kumar Pandey, the Udanti–Sitanadi Tiger Reserve is taking a new initiative in the field of biodiversity conservation.

These “restaurants” will not involve any artificial construction. Instead, natural clusters of fruit-bearing trees will be developed in forest and surrounding areas. Saplings of peepal, banyan, and ficus species—whose fruits are a primary food source for hornbills—will be planted. The objective of this initiative is to ensure year-round availability of natural food for these birds and to promote safe habitats for them. Efforts are also being made to plant and monitor trees that are essential for hornbill nesting.

Notably, these birds, which are generally found in the Western Ghats, are now being sighted more frequently in Udanti–Sitanadi due to its favorable climate and greenery. Earlier, sightings were rare, but now their presence is being recorded two to three times a week. Hornbills are also known as “forest engineers” or the natural gardeners of the forest, as they disperse seeds over long distances after consuming fruits, thereby aiding natural forest regeneration. The hilly terrain of Udanti–Sitanadi, located at an altitude of about 800 to 1,000 meters above sea level, is proving to be an ideal habitat for these birds.

To ensure the protection and monitoring of these rare birds, special tracking teams have been formed. Along with wildlife experts, trained local youth have been included, who are engaged in safeguarding nests and carrying out regular monitoring. Drone technology is also being used to keep watch over poaching activities and forest fires. This initiative will not only strengthen environmental conservation but also promote eco-tourism, allowing visitors to observe these rare birds from a safe distance in their natural surroundings and increasing awareness about the region’s rich biodiversity.