History
The Hornbill Research Foundation was set up following a project initiating research into the ecology of hornbills by the Faculty of Science, Mahidol University in 1980. The study was begun in Khao Yai National Park and later expended to include forests in western and sounthern regions. Apart form the biology and ecology of hornbills, research was also made into their range and status throughout the country. As a result, an increasing number of research workers were needed to cope with the expansion of project and the maintenance of uninterrupted record-keeping.
This led to the creation of a foundation which H.R.H. Princess Mahachakri Sirinthorn was graciously pleased to name, and “The Hornbill Research Foundation” was set up on July 1993.
[Hornbill] The Importance of Hornbills
Hornbills are both fruit and fresh eaters. They are far-ranging in their search for food and drop the seeds of the fruits they eat as they go, dispersing them over a wide area.They are thus important seed dispersers for the forest, acting as agents of forest regeneration, at the same time as controlling insects and other small animal populations. As such, they can be regarded as indicators of high moist forests, ensuring the continuance of forest health and species richness.
Aims
1. To continuce and expand further research intiatives into hornbills and related topics.
2. To disseminate information on forest and the wildlife within them to the public.
3. Develop interest in and encourage the study of natural ecosystems among scientists, researchers, students and schoolchildren.
4. Set up a centre for the exchange of information and training in research into hornbills at both national and international levels.
5. To work for the good of the public or co-operate with other nonprofit-making institutions for public benefit.
6. Not to be involved with any political activity.
Current Research Projects
Many important topics of research presently underway have been initiated by the project for the study of the Ecology of Hornbills, Faculty of Science, Mahidol University working in conjunction with the National Park, Wildlife and Plant Conservation Department and the Faculty of Forestry, Kasetsart University.
Survey of the range and status of hornbill populations throughout Thailand
The present distribution and status of wild hornbills is not yet know with any certainty, even
though such basic data is essential to manage the conservation of hornbills and their habitats.
Study of the biology and ecology of endangered hornbill species
Many species of Thai hornbills are at present near extinction. It is therefore vital to understand the basic needs for their survival in order to protect and conserve them. This study is currently being pursued in Huai Kha khaeng-Thung Yai wildlife Sanctuary and several protected forests in the south.
Endangered hornbill species include :
a. Wrinkled Hornbill b. Plain-pouched hornbill
c. Rufous-necked Hornbill d. Rhinoceros Hornbill
e. Helmeted Hornbill f. Black Hornbill
g. White-crowned Hounbill
Study of the biology and ecology of hornbills in khao Yai National Park
Research here has centred upon a long-term study of the breeding status of hornbills, identifying the factors necessary for successful breeding and growth of population, and the collection of data to determine the numbers of breeding pairs the study area might support, to study hornbill food plants, etc. Information collected is being used to adjust and improve abandoned nesting holes so that they may be re-occupied. Should this project prove successful, both the knowledge gained and the methods used can be applied to toher areas of conservation in the country. [Hornbill]
Youth Education Programme to inculcate interest in wildilife and the forest
The survival of Thailand’s forests ans wildlife will depend upon people’s understanding of the importance of the forests to their lives and the urgent need to help conserve them. With this in mind, the Foundation has produced booklets, held exhitions, given illustrated talks with slides, slide multivision shows and videos and organize “We love hornbills” nature Camps where children have been taken on guided treks through the forest and engaged in other nature activities. A nation-wide Hornbill Painting Competition has been organized.
Besides this varied youth programme and the opportunities offered for training in hornbill research, our target of awareness, through the publication of our research,will also be directed to the general public.
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