Following the signing of Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between Bangchak Sriracha Public Company Limited (BSRC), the Geo-Informatics and Space Technology Development Agency (GISTDA), and the Zoological Park Organization of Thailand under Royal Patronage, the "Bio-Conservation: A Mission for Biodiversity" project has made significant progress. This collaboration aims to leverage space technology and geo-informatics to support biodiversity conservation. A key initiative within this project involves the development of a small GPS tracking device, which will be attached to the backs of Great Hornbills - a large hornbill species that is endangered in Thailand. These birds have been successfully bred in captivity at Khao Kheow Open Zoo in Sriracha, Chonburi. With the project now making great strides, the working team has been preparing to release another pair of Great Hornbills into a northern conservation area this coming May. The GPS tracking system will provide real-time data to ensure the birds' safety and successful adaptation to their natural habitat.
Survival in the Wild: A Community Effort
Reintroducing Great Hornbills into their natural environment is a challenging process. Unlike their controlled habitat in the zoo, the wild presents a vastly different world where the birds must forage for food on their own and face potential threats, including human disturbances. Recognizing these challenges, the project organizers have launched community awareness programs, engaging with local residents in Chiang Dao, Chiang Mai. This upcoming release of a new pair of Great Hornbills into the wild marks a critical phase in their conservation. Their survival depends not only on nature but also on the cooperation of the local community. Residents play a crucial role in monitoring and protecting these rare birds, ensuring that they thrive in their natural surroundings.
The Great Hornbill: A Symbol of True Love and a Thriving Forest
The Great Hornbill is one of the largest hornbill species, and hornbills are widely regarded as symbols of love and loyalty. These birds mate for life, and once paired, they remain together forever. The male is responsible for finding food and protecting the female and their offspring. If one partner dies, the surviving bird often grieves to the point of death. Beyond their symbolic significance, hornbills are also key indicators of a healthy forest ecosystem. They consume over 300 types of fruit, both small and large, and play a vital role in seed dispersal. As they travel across the forest, they ingest whole fruits and later regurgitate the seeds, facilitating plant growth and maintaining biodiversity. Their role in dispersing tree species helps sustain the balance of the ecosystem. To raise awareness of hornbill conservation, Khao Kheow Open Zoo, in collaboration with BSRC and GISTDA, organized the "Hornbill Love Day: Spreading Love to the World" event on 13 February 2025. This initiative aims to inspire public involvement in preserving these magnificent birds and ensuring their continued presence in Thailand's forests.
The Great Hornbill: A Symbol of BSRC's Commitment
The Great Hornbill represents more than just a species, it embodies BSRC's commitment to environmental sustainability. Aligned with its corporate sustainability strategy, BSRC actively supports biodiversity conservation while upholding its responsibilities to society and local communities. The Great Hornbill serves as a powerful symbol of the company's dedication to restoring and preserving nature, ensuring a thriving and sustainable future for generations to come.