Arunachal – After years of absence, hornbills have returned to the skies over Silluk village in Mebo Sub-Division, sparking excitement among locals and conservationists. The unexpected sighting of a flock of around 14 Great Indian Hornbills (Buceros bicornis) on Monday has prompted the Pasighat Forest Division to issue a strict advisory against hunting or disturbing the birds.
Pasighat Divisional Forest Officer Hono Moda urged residents of Mebo and East Siang district to ensure the safety of the hornbills, reminding them that the species—also the state bird of Arunachal Pradesh—requires special protection due to its unique breeding habits. He further noted that Arunachal serves as a winter destination for several migratory bird species, all of which need safeguarding.
In his advisory, Moda emphasized that hunting, possession, or transport of wildlife and their body parts is a punishable offence under the Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972, carrying penalties of up to seven years in prison and fines reaching ₹1 lakh.
Community leaders have echoed the call for conservation. Silluk Head Gaon Burah Ashik Yirang and Silluk Swachh Abhiyan chairman Kepangnong Borang appealed to villagers not to harm the hornbills or any other bird species, warning of strict action against violators.
Local MLA Oken Tayeng welcomed the sighting, describing it as a positive ecological sign. “Hornbills were once abundant in this region. If protected properly, they will return regularly,” he said, urging collective responsibility in conservation efforts.
Meanwhile, the Borguli Wildlife Range under the D. Ering Memorial Wildlife Sanctuary confirmed similar sightings on the same day, sharing photographs of hornbills flying over the sanctuary’s woodland. Forest officials and conservation groups believe the renewed presence of hornbills reflects the success of ongoing community-driven conservation initiatives in East Siang.
