The Indian Grey Hornbill was reintroduced into Gujarat’s Gir forests after an absence of more than six decades; a peer‑reviewed study in Birds reports the released birds are surviving and breeding in the wild.
Species and Status
- Scientific name: Ocyceros birostris.
- Family: Bucerotidae.
- IUCN status: Least Concern (global assessment).
- Ecological role: Primarily frugivorous; important seed disperser in dry deciduous and semi‑evergreen forests.
Reintroduction in Gir
- Location: Gir landscape, Junagadh district, Gujarat (Gir National Park and Wildlife Sanctuary).
- Release details: 40 birds released in two phases — 28 in 2021–22 and 12 in 2023.
- Telemetry: Eleven males fitted with satellite transmitters to track movement, habitat use and breeding behaviour.
- Breeding evidence: One pair nested in the first year; three additional pairs nested in the second year.
- Study: “Reintroduction of Indian Grey Hornbills in Gir, India: Insights into Ranging, Habitat Use, Nesting and Behavioural Patterns” (journal: Birds).
IASPOINT Booster Facts
- IUCN guidance: Reintroductions follow IUCN Guidelines for Reintroductions and Other Conservation Translocations (2013).
- Telemetry metrics: Satellite tracking yields data on home‑range, dispersal distances and nesting site fidelity used in post‑release evaluation.
- Regulatory note: Species translocation projects require clearances and coordination with state forest authorities under India’s wildlife regulatory framework.