Rare Oriental Pied Hornbill Returns to Pasighat, Signals Healthy Forest Ecosystem

A rare sighting of an adult Oriental pied hornbill has been reported from Pasighat in East Siang district of Arunachal Pradesh after a long gap , a development that officials say reflects a healthy forest ecosystem in the region.

The bird was spotted foraging near the forest office area by local resident Biswajit Tayeng , drawing immediate attention from forest officials and wildlife enthusiasts. The sighting has been described as ecologically significant, given the species’ sensitivity to habitat disturbance and dependence on mature forest cover.

Officials noted that hornbills are important ecological indicators and play a vital role in maintaining forest health. Often referred to as the “farmers of the forest,” they contribute to seed dispersal over long distances , thereby aiding natural forest regeneration and sustaining biodiversity.

A forest department official said the return of the species after a prolonged absence suggests that habitat conditions in the region remain favourable. “This indicates that conservation measures and forest protection efforts are showing positive results,” the official said.

Experts emphasised that hornbills require undisturbed forests and large, old trees for nesting and survival, making them particularly vulnerable to deforestation and habitat fragmentation. The sighting has therefore reinforced calls for continued conservation efforts in Arunachal Pradesh, part of the ecologically rich Eastern Himalayan biodiversity hotspot .

Deputy Chief Minister Chowna Mein also welcomed the development, calling it a positive ecological sign. In a post on X, he said the presence of hornbills signals a healthy ecosystem, given their critical role in forest regeneration and ecological balance.

Forest authorities have urged stronger community participation, protection of natural habitats, and sustained efforts to prevent deforestation in the region.