Conservation Threats of White-Bellied Heron (Ardea insignis) in Zhemgang District, Bhutan
Karma Sherub *
Faculty of Forestry, College of Natural Resources, Royal University of Bhutan.
Cheku Cheku
Department of Forest and Park Services, Jigme Singye Wangchuck National Park, Bhutan.
Phuntshok Phuntshok
Department of Forest and Park Services, Jigme Singye Wangchuck National Park, Bhutan.
Namgay Dorji
Department of Forest and Park Services, Jigme Singye Wangchuck National Park, Bhutan.
*Author to whom correspondence should be addressed.
Abstract
The study was conducted in 2018 along the Mangdechhu river basin and Bertichhu stream of Zhemgang district, which are the important habitats for White-bellied Heron (Ardea insignis) in Bhutan. We have documented the anthropogenic threats, directly affecting the survival of the species through focal sampling along established transects at the study area. The major anthropogenic threats leading to the habitat degradation encountered were overhead hydropower transmission lines installed across the river/stream, firewood collection from riverbank, sand/stone quarry, temporary cattle herding camp and grazing, camping/picnicking and fishing. This study found that the sites used for foraging and resting by the species should be strictly monitored and protected from the human disturbances.
Keywords: Anthropogenic threats, awareness campaign, Bertichhu stream, Mangdechhu River, White-bellied Heron