In a collaborative mission to protect the White-bellied Heron from the brink of extinction, a coalition of global conservators has taken bold steps to safeguard the survival of this critically endangered species in Bhutan.
As the calendar turned to 2024, it became apparent that fewer than 45 individuals of this species still roamed the planet, with their very existence under threat due to the loss of suitable habitats and interference by human activities.
The conservation endeavors took a leap ahead through a partnership between experts from Japan and the Royal Society for Protection of Nature (RSPN) in Bhutan at the dedicated White-bellied Heron Conservation Center (WBHCC). Backed by the Bhutanese authorities, benefactors, and altruistic supporters, the facility embarked on an audacious plan to create a captive breeding program for these majestic birds.
Advancing Conservation Methods
In the face of difficulty safeguarding the White-bellied Herons, due to inbreeding and the consequent genetic complications from their dwindling population, the RSPN noted grave challenges. In the year 2023, they managed to incubate three eggs successfully; however, the fledglings were ultimately put down due to health concerns stemming from their genetic makeup. Despite this setback, there is an unyielding determination to develop a strong captive group that will be reintroduced to the natural world.
Professor Satoshi Shimano of Hosei University, having witnessed similar conservation endeavors with endangered birds in Japan, resolved to contribute his knowledge to this cause, committing to steer clear of past errors experienced in Japanese conservation.
Japanese veterinarians Dr. Takashi Nagamine and Dr. Yumiko Nakaya questioned previous assertions that genetic issues were behind the fatal outcomes in the young birds. Instead, they focused on improving the conditions for rearing the birds by hand. By adopting their suggested improvements, such as adjusting the nesting materials to prevent deformities in the legs of the birds, there were promising results.
A team of experts, supported by the Japanese Association of Zoos and Aquariums (JAZA), has been crucial in imparting vital skills and supplying necessary apparatus. Rei Matsumoto, a veterinary professional from Hyogo Park, remains hopeful that the White-bellied Heron can be saved, reflecting on past lessons from conservation attempts.
This joint operation is progressing well, with the ambition to grow a sustainable founder population in captivity that can thrive for future release into the wild. Professor Shimano and his team pledge a 20-year commitment to bolstering the White-bellied Herons, eyeing a timeframe of five to 10 years to cultivate a captive population of about 30 individuals, from which several can be released back into their natural environment.
This cross-national alliance between Bhutan and Japan in the realm of wildlife preservation exemplifies the significance of international teamwork in avoiding the loss of species. It harbors a beacon of hope for the White-bellied Heron, underpinning the continued, unified efforts required to preserve this magnificent bird for the pleasure of future generations.
