Zoo Praha is playing a crucial role in helping to save the critically endangered Imperial Heron in the Kingdom of Bhutan. With less than sixty individuals remaining in the entire range of this large heron, half of them are found in Bhutan. However, even in Bhutan, the construction of hydroelectric power plants poses a threat to their survival. Several years ago, preparations for a project to save the Imperial Heron began, and Zoo Praha was invited to participate in this conservation effort.
The Imperial Heron is one of the most endangered birds on the planet, with less than thirty individuals living in Bhutan. The goal of the project is to remove some chicks from the last nests of the Imperial Herons and create a backup population in human care. Since 2017, future Bhutanese breeders have been trained, some of whom have completed internships at Zoo Praha in Prague. Zoo Praha has also assisted in the construction of a breeding station in Bhutan and provided equipment and materials. Additionally, Antonín Vaidl from Zoo Praha has been providing extensive consultations to the staff of the Bhutanese Royal Society for the Protection of Nature.
The first chicks of the Imperial Herons were removed from one of the nests in April this year and transferred to a newly built breeding facility in the Changche-Tshirang area. Interestingly, a transport box from Zoo Praha was used during the chick removal process. Two chicks have successfully acclimated in an outdoor aviary after being moved from the station’s facilities.
According to Antonín Vaidl, the current situation of the chicks is promising. The plan for next year is to remove some chicks from nests that would not survive in the wild. Even if four chicks hatch in one nest, only two will survive, usually just one. This conservation strategy may be the last chance to save the Imperial Heron from extinction.
In addition to their efforts in saving the Imperial Heron, Zoo Praha has also achieved success in breeding Peters’s Duikers, small African mammals with a bizarre appearance. The birth of two Duiker calves is the result of several years of breeding efforts. Despite their unusual appearance, Duikers are fascinating creatures that Zoo Praha has successfully bred.
Furthermore, thanks to a report from Mrs. Tržilová, an escaped female fox was successfully captured in Podhoří and safely returned to the zoo. This incident highlights the importance of community involvement in wildlife conservation efforts.
In conclusion, Zoo Praha’s involvement in the conservation of the Imperial Heron in Bhutan is a significant step towards preserving this critically endangered species. Through collaborative efforts and innovative conservation strategies, Zoo Praha continues to make a positive impact on wildlife conservation both locally and globally.