Ratnagiri, Feb. 23 -- : Emphasising the vital ecological role of hornbills, Pratik More, Executive Director of the Sahyadri Sankalp Society, called for urgent conservation measures at the Bird Friends Conference organised by the Forest Department in Ratnagiri.
Speaking on the topic "The Farmer of the Forest," More said that protecting existing forests, promoting fresh plantations and conserving natural habitats must be given top priority.
He noted that India is home to nine species of hornbills, of which four are found in the Western Ghats, particularly in Ratnagiri. Describing the hornbill as a farmer of the forest, he explained that the bird has been naturally regenerating forests for years through seed dispersal. Protecting its habitat...