𝗦𝘁𝗿𝗲𝗻𝗴𝘁𝗵𝗲𝗻𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗰𝗼𝗼𝗿𝗱𝗶𝗻𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻 𝗳𝗼𝗿 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝗰𝗼𝗻𝘀𝗲𝗿𝘃𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻 𝘄𝗼𝗿𝗸𝘀

Today, the Royal Society for Protection of Nature (RSPN), in collaboration with the Department of Energy, hosted a coordination meeting to discuss measures to mitigate threats impacting or may impact the White-bellied Heron and its associated species.

Since 2003, RSPN has been working closely with relevant stakeholders, including local communities, to address direct and indirect threats to the species and its habitat. In recent years, however, the increasing cases of White-bellied Heron mortality caused by natural predation and infrastructure-related incidents have become a major concern. Given the species’ extremely low population, the loss of even a few individuals can have serious implications on the population.

The meeting brought together representatives from the Department of Energy, Department of Forest and Park Services (virtual), Bhutan Power Corporation, consultants, and RSPN staff for in-depth discussions. Key deliberations centred on exploring the means to install the bird flight diverters or line markers along transmission lines that are within the critical habitats of White-bellied Heron, the restoration of degraded areas, and the ecological rehabilitation of sites cleared for power line construction.

Within the next few months, RSPN in collaboration with respective Departments and Bhutan Power Corporation, will conduct a detailed site assessment and take appropriate measures to mitigate the threats. RSPN has already secured the support of Roger Williams Park Zoo/Rhode Island Zoological Society through Sophie Danforth Biology Fund in initiating this activity.

Through continued collaboration and proactive mitigation, the participants reaffirmed their shared commitment to ensuring the long-term survival of the White-bellied Heron and the protection of its critical habitat, balancing conservation and developmental activities, especially in the energy sector.