A STUDY ON THE STATUS OF HORNBILL SPECIES OF UTTARAKHAND, INDIA

Nine species of hornbill are found in India, out of which three are recorded in Uttarakhand. Among these, one is classified as Vulnerable, and two as Least Concern (IUCN Red List, 2020). Located in the western Himalayas, the Uttarakhand state, encompasses a wide range of vegetation zones including moist deciduous, mixed broadleaf, Sal-dominated and oak-rhododendron forests, providing diversified habitats for hornbill species. A comprehensive review was undertaken to identify diversity, distribution, key threats and conservation of hornbills in Uttarakhand state. Old grown forests support their population. Protected areas are supporting a good number of hornbills. In urban area their presence is depend upon the availability of large old trees for nesting. Major threats for these include habitat loss due to deforestation and infrastructure development, climate change, fragmentation of nesting habitats, reduction in the availability of large fruiting trees, and disturbances at breeding sites. The aim of this research paper is to understand the ecology, conservation status, and threats to hornbill species found in Uttarakhand, and to provide insights about conservation to ensure the long-term survival of hornbill populations in the State.