The Bio-Conservation: A Mission for Biodiversity project is carried out through the collaboration of BSRC, GISTDA, and Khao Kheow Open Zoo, together with the research on Ecological and Biological Monitoring of Great Hornbills after Reintroduction into Protected Areas in Northern Thailand. The initiative aims to create a balance between the natural preservation and technological advancement.
Held on 18 September 2025, the ceremony marked the release of a pair of Great Hornbills successfully bred at Khao Kheow Open Zoo, Chonburi, into northern forest areas. Each bird was equipped with a small, lightweight GNSS tracking device to monitor behavior, flight paths, feeding areas, and adaptation in natural habitats. This milestone represents significant progress in conservation research, bridging scientific data with sustainable ecosystem management.
The event featured a variety of engaging activities to encourage participation, such as a contest to name the newly released pair of Great Hornbills, with the winning names being "Salo" and "Sorsung." Other highlights included a symbolic hornbill marriage registration ceremony, presentation of scholarships to children of Chae Son National Park officers, as well as educational exhibitions for youth and community members attending the event.
In addition to the release ceremony, three partners previously organized outreach activities to raise awareness among local communities on the importance of hornbill conservation, forest preservation, and biodiversity protection. These efforts foster community understanding and participation, which are key foundations for sustainable conservation.
Mrs. Matana Sutatham highlighted BSRC's commitment by stating "The release of Great Hornbills back into the wild is not only an environmental mission, but also a symbol of collaboration among communities, public and private sector networks. By integrating innovation into this effort, we can move forward with greater stability and sustainability".
This initiative reaffirms BSRC's mission to foster positive impact alongside communities and the environment, while striving to balance business growth with the sustainable protection of Thailand's biodiversity.