Rare Great Hornbill Spotted in Ezhimala, Boosting Biodiversity Hopes

Quick Summary

• The Malamuzhakki Vezhambal (Great Hornbill), Kerala’s State bird, was sighted in Kakkampara near Ezhimala, Kannur, outside its usual forest habitats.
• Observed perched on a fig-laden Ficus exasperata tree on May 24,the bird remained in the area for two weeks,foraging from fruit-bearing trees.
• Birdwatchers Manoj Karingamathil, P. Jameela and Abhinav Jeevan confirmed the rare sighting of a male hornbill at Ezhimala Naval Academy’s campus. The discovery began with relatives casually sharing photos via WhatsApp without realizing its rarity.
• Typically found in evergreen forests such as Silent Valley and Nelliampathy or moist deciduous regions like Athirappilly and Aralam; its unexpected presence near coastal areas is considered an ecological indicator.
• There are few undocumented sightings near Aralam forest and Karimbam farms according to Mr.Manoj.
• Ramanthali grama panchayat president V. Shyma said this reinforces that the region remains biodiversely rich despite human habitation.
• Dr. Sneha Subhash from Sir Syed Collage emphasized further studies are needed to understand such movements toward coastal hills.
• The Great Hornbill is listed as “endangered” by IUCN and protected under Schedule 1 of the Indian Wildlife (Protection) Act.

indian Opinion Analysis

The sighting of Kerala’s State Bird-the Great Hornbill-in an unexpected habitat marks an importent moment for ecological research in India.As an endangered species with specific habitat preferences typically within dense forests, its movement to coastal regions could indicate shifts in environmental factors or broader biodiversity dynamics worth studying.

This event highlights two key aspects-firstly, it underscores the importance of citizen awareness regarding conservation efforts; even casual documentation like photos can contribute value to scientific inquiries when brought forward by learned observers such as student Abhinav Jeevan here.

secondly, it calls attention to maintaining biodiversity hotspots like Kannur’s coastal belt amidst ongoing human activities which pose risks through developmental pressures or resource exploitation.

experts’ recommendation for further study aligns well with long-term conservation goals essential both locally (to preserve unique ecosystems) and nationally (as India continues grappling with global biodiversity loss). This rare appearance also serves as a reminder that better public engagement coupled with deeper research investments can sustain both natural heritage icons-like these grand hornbills-and regional ecosystems concurrently.

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